New US Open champion Michael Campbell has revealed how moving to Brighton five years ago played a significant role in his dramatic victory at Pinehurst on Sunday.

Campbell believes the fact he is so settled on the Sussex coast was a major factor in helping him see off the challenge of Tiger Woods to win his first major championship.

The 36-year-old had considered quitting the game in 1997 after losing his card on both the Australasian and European Tours.

Instead he battled back from the brink and claims his move from Richmond to Brighton in 2000 allowed him to take his game on to a higher level.

Campbell, who was speaking to the world's media at the Grand Hotel yesterday and posing for pictures on the beach with the trophy, said: "I think if you find a place to live where you are happy it definitely helps your game.

"If you are comfortable in your home life it helps you concentrate more when you are out on the course. We feel very settled in Brighton and I think my game has improved as a result."

Campbell returned to Brighton on Tuesday and celebrated by enjoying a quiet coffee with wife Julie in Cafe Nero on Church Road.

He added: "I love the fact you can get away from it all and be incognito in Brighton. There are so many stars who live here no one pays me much attention. That may change from now on though!"