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Randhawa looks to rekindle Singapore magic
Former Asian number one Jyoti Randhawa of India loves playing tournament golf in the Lion City and is looking forward to the Singapore Open, which carries a purse of US$2 million. He won the Singapore Open in 2000, his first victory outside India and a turning point in his career. Jyoti is on the comeback trail after surgery on his lower abdomen at the end of May kept him out of the game for two months but he hopes to be fully fit for the Singapore Open at Sentosa Golf Club from September 8-11. The Indian is third in the Asian Tour rankings with winnings of US$184,120 and, in this interview, he looks ahead to the Singapore Open and the race to be Asia's number one in 2005.
Q With a top prize of more than US$300,000, the Singapore Open will be pivotal in the race to be Asia's number one. How do you rate your chances of winning A) the Singapore Open and B) the Asian Tour Order of Merit (OOM)?
A I think I have as good a chance as anyone. If I am fit and feeling confident, I am always tough to beat. It just depends how my preparation and practice prior to the event pan out. Naturally if I win or finish high up I will have a good chance at capturing the OOM again. But a lot depends on how the other guys in the present top five perform. It could be very tight down to the end of the season. If Thaworn Wiratchant (the current leader of the
OOM) wins, then I think the race is pretty much over.
Q You won the Singapore Open in 2000. Any particular memories about that tournament and is Singapore a place where you enjoy playing golf?
A That was a great win for me as it was my first victory outside India and a vindication of sorts. I really played solidly that week and made very few mistakes under pressure. That's when I truly started to believe in my mental strength and that has become one of my fortes since then. It also came right after I was married, so it was especially memorable in that sense. As for Singapore, I do like playing there and have done pretty well. I have had some very good finishes there - definitely a place I enjoy going to and competing.
Q Have you played at Sentosa Golf Club before and, if so, how do you rate the Serapong course. What are the main features of the layout?
A I have not played the course but have heard very good things about it. I know the rough will be up and the fairways tight and there can be quite a bit of wind on the holes fronting the sea. And water comes into play quite a lot. Sounds very challenging and should test every aspect of my game. I'm looking forward to it!
Q Who is your tip to be Asia's number one this season?
Well, Thaworn is in the driver's seat right now and playing really well. But a lot depends on who wins the Singapore Open. Anyone in the top 10 now has a real shot at the OOM crown. Unfortunately I won't be playing many more events in Asia after this one, so I am at a bit of a disadvantage. But we'll see what happens. I'm always going to back myself regardless. Besides me, I would have to go with Thaworn.
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