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October 27, 2016

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Li ready to tee off for home glory

MORE than 40 of the world’s top 50 golfers will tee off this morning in Shanghai for the WGC-HSBC Champions, in the strongest field at the annual event known as “Asia’s major”.

For the first time, all four major winners will compete at the Sheshan International Golf Club, namely British Open champion Henrik Stenson of Sweden, US Open and 2013 HSBC Champions winner Dustin Johnson of the US, Masters winner Danny Willett of Britain and American PGA Champion Jimmy Walker. Other star names include four-time major winner Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, defending champion Russel Knox of Britain, 2014 HSBC Champions winner Bubba Watson of the US, 13-time PGA Tour winner Adam Scott of Australia, as well as European Ryder Cup stars Germany’s Martin Kaymer and Briton Lee Westwood.

There is also a strong Chinese presence, including Li Haotong, Wu Ashun, and Dou Zecheng.

“Playing at home is always very special but HSBC Champions is different,” said Li, winner of the 2016 Volvo China Open. “This is the one every Chinese golfer wants to win. It feels like our major and it’s the only chance we have to take on the very best players in the world with the support of our own fans.”

Li’s tied-seventh finish last year was the best by a Chinese golfer at the local tournament. Coming into this year’s event, the 21-year-old appeared to be in a more relaxed mood. “I played a great tournament here last year. The condition of the course is good this year, though the long rough and wet condition might turn out to be a challenge.”

Li said he didn’t really make any special preparation for the tournament, but wanted to enjoy the world-class competition.

“For me and for every golfer aiming at a professional career, there are three important principles: to enjoy golf, to practice hard and be self-disciplined. If you don’t enjoy playing, you won’t be able to carry on for long. To become the champion here is as hard as winning a major, therefore all I can do is do my best and play my style of golf.”

Li’s first Olympic foray at the 2016 Rio Summer Games ended in a shared 50th finish. Having always listed Tiger Woods as his idol, the youngster knows he has a long way to go to eventually become one of the sport’s elites.

“It (Olympics) was a precious experience that not all golfers can get. I hope I’ll make it to the next Olympics. For now, I am working on getting some sponsor and play more on the PGA Tour.”

Li has played on the European Tour and posted a pair of top-20 finishes, moving him up to No. 42 in the Race to Dubai.

Dou, a graduate of the CGA-HSBC China Junior Golf Program, will make his second appearance at the WGC tournament.

“Li’s performance last year was very inspiring for Chinese players as we grew up with him,” Dou revealed.

“As young Chinese players we are all maturing. We are growing in numbers and in confidence. With hard work and dedication hopefully we can continue to improve,” the 19-year-old added.




 

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