Annika Sorenstam speaks her mind
When Swedish Annika Sorenstam opted to retire from professional golf in 2008, her fans clearly were not happy, as she had already astonished them by winning three LPGA (Ladies Professional
Golf Association) and one LET (Ladies European Tour) title in that season.
Sorenstam’s retirement might not have been welcomed by her fans, but her success on both the LPGA and LET is still a great source of inspiration for many young golfers.
During the 2008 season when she called it quits, she also grabbed a title at the China Suzhou Taihu Open — which is still as refreshing as it at was at that time.
The golfing icon recently spoke her mind during an interview with the LET, mentioning what it was like to play at Suzhou Taihu International Golf Club, Shanghai, China, and how difficult
it was to stand firm in front of stars like Ye Li Ying.
It was a battle tougher than many had anticipated, as being a Swede, it was not easy to play at an Asian course. With plenty of crowd support, Ye Li Ying of Chin moved into playoff along
with Sorenstam, but could not hold her ground when it came time to show her skills on the putting green.
On the second hole in playoff, Sorenstam finally subdued her rival, grabbing her fourth victory of the season in an impressive style.
Even after over four years, Sorenstam still recounts her stunning victor with great enthusiasm.
When asked during her interview that what she thinks about the triumph, the LPGA titan said that she cannot express her feelings as it was more than just a victory to beat a Chinese rival
on her own soil.
She went on to say that China has been a hot spot for women’s golf and there was no better course to stage the event on than the Suzhou Taihu Golf Club, Shanghai.
She said that the course has staged five events so far, which reflects the true potential of the place for women’s golf.
“I like it. It has comfortable feel and atmosphere. The golf course had a variety of holes and it was a good challenge. I am glad to see the commitment and effort from the club. The support
is very important,” said Sorenstam who racked up 72 LPGA and 17 LET titles in her professional stint.
Due to her attachment with golf, officials of Chinese golf unveiled a tournament by the name of Annika Invitational, which saw its second edition being staged at Mission Hills recently.
“I recently hosted the second annual ANNIKA Invitational at Mission Hills and am looking forward to returning next summer. It is the first-ever girls only, junior tournament in China and I
am very proud of it,” she said.
“Growing the game of golf for girls is something I am passionate about and I love helping them pursue their dreams”.
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