2012 US Senior Open Champion Roger Chapman has withdrawn from next weeks US Open because of a shoulder injury.

The 54-year old was fully exempt to play at Merion, but his absence has provided an opportunity for in form Scott Stallings to take his place after being the first alternate from the Memphis sectional qualifying.

Chapman feels the combination of his shoulder injury and a grueling Champions Tour schedule ahead, were enough reasons for a withdrawal.

“I consider it an honor to be invited to the championship, however, I do have some nagging shoulder issues and that would mean playing essentially eight consecutive weeks of major championship golf.

“While I feel that I would enjoy playing in the U.S. Open, I am a member of the PGA TOUR’s Champions Tour and will compete in this week’s Regions Tradition and take scheduled weeks off to allow me to continue to play at a high level on the Champions Tour which should be my highest priority. 

”This would allow another deserving player an opportunity to experience playing in one of the biggest golf events in the world.”

His replacement, Stallings is in stellar form of late, having recorded 2 consecutive T4 finishes at the Crowne Plaza Invitational and the Memorial Tournament.