Louis de Jager is looking forward to the challenge of teeing it up against some of Europe’s best as they descend on the European Tour’s BMW International Open, writes WADE PRETORIUS.
De Jager is one of 10 South Africans, including veteran Ernie Els, in the field this week at the final stop before a run of three consecutive Rolex Series events before The Open Championship.
The significance of that run is not lost on the 31-year-old Sunshine Tour star as he sets his sights on an extended stay in Europe.
‘Obviously, it’s exciting to be in Germany this week and test myself against some really, really good players. My game’s in great shape and the goal is definitely a top 10,’ he tells Compleat Golfer.
‘A good showing here gets me into next week, so I’m looking forward to getting going now. The course isn’t particularly long but it’s demanding off the tee, so if I put it in a playoff, there will be some good scoring opportunities.
‘You know, my short game and putter feels good, so I’m starting this week in a confident mood.’
De Jager’s hopes of a strong finish at Golf Club Gut Larchenhof, host of the German Masters for 11 consecutive years from 1998-2009, are made more difficult with Tommy Fleetwood – runner-up at the US Open last week and reigning 2017 Race to Dubai winner – taking up the role as the player to beat.
Even then it’s no one-horse race with Sergio Garcia returning to one of his favourite venues.
The Spaniard ranks inside the top 10 in driving accuracy and second or better in birdies per round and strokes gained on par fours and fives. Looking past the star duo, home favourite Martin Kaymer and Italian Open champion Thorbjorn Olesen lend their weight to make the event one to watch.
De Jager is joined in the first two rounds with countryman Jacques Kruyswijk, and the pair could give each other the boost needed to start well.
The European Tour rookie enters the week in good form with recent tournaments yielding two top finishes. Joining Kruyswijk as one of the Saffas in good form is Justin Walters, who will be looking to add another strong performance after a top-five finish at the Shot Clock Masters.
Andres Romero will seek to play his best this week as he looks to become the first to defend a BMW International Open title.
