Chinese star Li Haotong hopes to make it a week to remember when he makes his debut at the second edition of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open which starts on Thursday.
The 20-year-old Li, who enjoyed a career breakthrough on home soil a fortnight ago, will be part of the international field ready to contend against the leading players from the Asian, European and Sunshine Tours in the âŹ1 million (approximately US$1.09 million) event.
He will be joined by young Korean duo Soomin Lee and Jeunghun Wang, both recent winners on the European Tour, at the Four Seasons Golf Club Mauritius in Anahita which is hosting the event for the first time.
âItâs my first time here and Iâm enjoying it so far. I havenât been around but would definitely love to explore the island if I have the time this week. My aim is to play well and earn more world ranking points to solidify my position on the Olympic rankings,â said Li, who broke into the Olympic frame after winning on the European Tour.
âWinning on home soil a couple of weeks back has boosted my confidence as I was struggling to play well for about eight weeks before my win. It will be a dream come true if I can qualify for the Olympics,â he added. Â
Despite gaining much-need confidence from his win two weeks ago, Li conceded he has to stay patient in the windy conditions at the host venue this week.
âThe golf course is looking good. Itâs very windy but I think itâs fair because everyone plays under the same conditions. I will have to stay patient. It will be the key to play well. I just want to play my own game and enjoy myself out there. The pressure to play well is always going to be there. Itâs a very nice environment here. It makes you feel relaxed and I hope that will help me play well this week,â said Li.
Young Filipino Miguel Tabuena, Australian Scott Hend, Singaporeâs Mardan Mamat and Thai hotshots Danthai Boonma and Natipong Srithong will all feature in the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.
For more information on the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open:Â http://afrasiabankmauritiusopen.com/