Intro:

Briton Graeme McDowell's hopes of winning a third successive French Open title are over after he fails to make the cut in Paris. Martin Kaymer shares a three-way tie for the second round lead with Ryder Cup team-mate Victor Dubuisson and first round joint-leader Rafael Cabrera-Bello.

Script:

Briton Graeme McDowell's hopes of winning a third successive French Open title ended as a round of 78 caused him to miss the cut.

The 35-year-old was unable to finish his first round on Thursday because of weather delays. When play resumed, he parred the 18th for an opening 72.

After a short break, McDowell ran up two double bogeys to card a seven-over-par 78; well outside the predicted cut-off point.

It was the Northern Irishman's worst score in 32 rounds at Le Golf National.

Martin Kaymer birdied the final hole to move in to a three-way tie for the lead.

The German is joined by Ryder Cup team-mate Victor Dubuisson and first round joint-leader Rafael Cabrera-Bello on four under.

Cabrera-Bello birdied the 17th to card a one-under 70.

While home favourite Dubuisson carded three bogeys and one birdie in the last 11 holes.