Avis Rent A Car announces a new multi-year relationship with the world's fifth ranked golfer, Steve Stricker, who will begin representing the brand at the 2011 Open Championship (commonly referred to as the "British Open") at the storied Royal St. George's Golf Club in Sandwich, United Kingdom.

Stricker, known as Mr. September for his prowess on the course during the annual PGA TOUR playoffs, won his third consecutive John Deere Classic on Sunday. The victory marked his second win in 2011 and catapulted him to second place, from 12th, in the FedExCup standings. In June, Stricker defeated an elite field at The Memorial tournament.

Starting today, Stricker will compete with the world's top golfers in the Open Championship, a tournament watched by more than 200 million viewers around the globe. Stricker will then continue as an Avis ambassador throughout the remainder of 2011 and beyond. On the course, Stricker will wear the iconic Avis logo on his shirts and outerwear.

"Steve exemplifies the Avis 'We try harder' spirit by playing his best when it counts the most," said Tom Gartland, executive vice president of sales, marketing and customer care for Avis Budget Group, parent company of Avis. "Whether it's challenging himself to win on the course, being a great family man or giving back to his local Madison, Wisconsin community, Steve represents the same qualities we look for in our employees, who always go the extra mile to serve our customers. And, there is no better place to start what I believe is going to be a mutually beneficial relationship than at golf's oldest event, the Open Championship."

"I'm very proud to be partnering with Avis and to be representing them as I compete in tournaments around the world," said Stricker. "The company's core values, such as hard work and treating people with courtesy, are values I've aspired to represent throughout my career. I look forward to serving as an ambassador for Avis and its many dedicated employees both on and off the golf course."