Ian Poulter hopes to make it big at Volvo China Open after recovering from Pneumonia
Paul Casey is not the only Englishman on the field at this week’s Volvo China Open who is making a comeback, countryman Ian Poulter is also an aspiring contender who has managed to swing a club after a terrible bout of Pneumonia.
The 36-year-old Poulter suffered from the dreadful disease at the start of March and has not only lost considerable weight but also fears dilapidation in form and putting this week.
He said, “It was five days of pure misery to start with. I had a resting heart rate of 98 and lost ten pounds in five days which wasn’t great”.
Poulter finished for a strong third at Bay Hill and also shot into contention at the Masters and is hoping that his illness will not have dire repercussions at this week’s star-studded event in Tianjin.
Poulter also confided that he has lost almost five kilograms and a few inches over the shoulders and biceps.
He added, “Ten pounds is a lot to lose and I just have to be careful not to overdo and have a relapse. It wasn’t enjoyable, that’s for sure. I just have to rest and recover. I have lost an inch and a half around the shoulders and other areas were affected such as biceps and thighs etc”.
Winner of 13 professional events in his career, Poulter is featured as one of the colourful contenders on the European entourage, dressed in his trade-mark, self-designed chequered apparel.
He is also known to have the biggest fan following on the social network Tweeter and was criticised by the legendary Nick Faldo for his non-serious attitude towards the sport.
Casey has already won the Volvo China Open in the year 2005, and is known for his liking for the Asian turf.
He added, “I like coming out to Asia and have had some success in this part of the world”.
Poulter is currently ranked at number 25th on the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) and will be hoping to post a strong finish to improve his standings on both the OWGR and the Race to Dubai.
Poulter is also considered an expert in the Match Play format of the game.
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