Thitiphun shooting for the stars again

The in-form Swede won the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai on Sunday and established himself as the first man to win both the Race to Dubai and the FedEx Cup series in a single season. 

Stensen will be one of the favourites at the Amata Spring Country Club where he has always brought his best game and where he contributed to Europe victories over Asia in the Royal Trophy in 2006, 2007 and 2010. 

Also returning to defend his crown is South African Schwartzel, who 11 months ago dashed the hopes of home player Thitiphun Chuayprakong and Watson with a bogey-free 263 to finish 11 shots ahead of his two rivals. The 2011 Masters champion will make his third appearance in the event. He was the runner-up in the inaugural championship in 2010 won by Lee Westwood, who is also in this year’s line-up.

In addition to Rose (the first Englishman in 43 years to win the US Open), other stars in the field include Rickie Fowler, Darren Clarke, Hunter Mahan, John Daly and Japanese heart-throb Ryo Ishikawa.

For 21-year-old Thitiphun, this tournament holds fond memories of his neck-and-neck battle with Schwartzel over the first two days. Although he has yet to repeat the same form, with only one top 10 finish in the Chiang Mai Classic in March, the local young gun still believes in his potential.“I’ve learned a lot from last year. I have become more patient and more careful with my shot selections in,” said Thitiphun, nicknamed “Tote” (“low boy”) for his extremely relaxed personality.

“Even though there are many stars, I believe I have a chance,” said the Thai, who has shed three kilos in a bid for fitness. Joining Thitiphun at their home event will be top Thai players Thongchai Jaidee, Thaworn Wiratchant, Prayad Marksaeng and Prom Meesawat.

Sarath Ratanavadi, executive director of Thailand Golf Championship, is thrilled to have gathered such a high quality field.

“We are delighted to welcome so many world class players to Thailand, and having the likes of Stenson and Rose here is a real honour. Having these top players competing alongside the rising talents from our region provides a phenomenal opportunity and learning experience for the young stars of the future.”

The tournament will be broadcast live to 200 countries and 800 million homes worldwide.