American Nick Hardy has a secret weapon as he prepares for his Open debut – his partner

American Nick Hardy has a secret weapon as he prepares for his Australian Open debut – and she’s got a kit bag full of tricks.

Nick Hardy’s secret weapon.

American Nick Hardy has been to Australia before, but never to play the Open. Fortunately, he will have a secret weapon in his arsenal as he prepares to tackle The Lakes and The Australian Golf Club in coming days.

Hardy’s partner Elizabeth Elmassian is a handy golfer who has become a social media sensation thanks to an array of trick shots she has filmed for her Instagram account.

She also grew up in Sydney, happens to be a former club champion at The Australian and will caddie for him this week.

“There are some courses you don’t need to know or have course knowledge on, but this is definitely one it is good to have knowledge on,” Hardy said.

“She is a great golfer. She is my No.1 supporter when I am playing on the tour. She knows my game really well. It is definitely going to be fun for us.

“She has never caddied for me before but she watches every shot when I am on the road. She being a golfer and having a golf background is certainly helpful.”

Hardy’s connections with Australia run deep. His relationship with Elmassian means he has spent plenty of time in Sydney in recent years. He is also coached by an Australian – Gary Barter, the director of teaching at The Australian.

“Liz and I have been together for seven years or so,” Hardy said.

“I have come here maybe five times. My coach Gary Barter works out of here …. but this is my first Open. So I am excited.

Hardy is closing in on his Open debut. Picture: Getty Images

“I don’t know why I didn’t play (before). It didn’t really work out I guess. (The Australian) has played kind of a big role in my life though the connections, thorough Lissie and then through my coach.

“It is like a homecoming for me 10,000 miles away.”

Hardy hopes this will be the first Open of many. His star is on the rise – he won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with Davis Riley earlier this year on the PGA Tour – and he has a deep appreciation for the significance of the Australian Open.

“It has a really incredible list of winners,” he said.

“I think this is obviously a great golf course – both are great venues. I think more Americans generally should come play this event.

“I know it is easier for me to say because I have a (partner) who lives here. I think I said the list of past champions is cool so I would love to put another American flag on that.”