SCOTT HOMES IN ON A SHOT AT PGA CROWN

ADAM Scott must pack his best game for his Gold Coast homecoming as Royal Pines officials prepare a slick and wicked course certain to test the 2013 US Masters champion.

The 37-year-old yesterday locked in another return to the Australian PGA Championship, adding to his reputation as a bona fide backer of the game Down Under.

Given his commitments to a growing family, it’s expected to be Scott’s only Australian appearance, though the fact the 2013 champion lines up alongside fellow US Masters winner Sergio Garcia could help deliver a record crowd from November 30 to December 3.

“Competing ... in front of a home crowd is always such a highlight for me,” said Scott, whose Sanctuary Cove family home is 30 minutes from the course.

“I really appreciate the local support and I am hoping that this year I can add my name to the Joe Kirkwood Cup for a second time.

“It’s great to see Sergio in the field … and I am sure he and his family will enjoy all that the Gold Coast has to offer.”

RACV Royal Pines Resort manager Eddie Ross hailed the Scott coup, though says the “bedding down” of the course’s immature surface in recent years adds an exciting element to the superstar duel.

“It’s only going to be more difficult and roll faster,” Ross said as Scott shoots for his first win of 2017.

“It’s been designed for men’s golf; they find it quite challenging and the scores aren’t as good as they used to be.

“But Adam’s got a good track record here and it would be good to see him get up over Sergio. I think there will be a healthy little competition between the two.”

More than 30,000 flowed through the gates in the PGA’s first year on the Gold Coast in 2013 when Scott headlined a field including colourful American Rickie Fowler.

This time, however, Scott’s one-two combo with good friend Garcia is predicted to surpass previous records.

“I’d expect it to be around that (30,000) if not stronger, especially with where Sergio is sitting at No.5,” Ross said.

“I think it’s a great event for the Gold Coast anyway and attracts a lot of attention outside of the golf crowds.”

PGA of Australia chief executive Gavin Kirkman said Scott’s buy-in at home continues to win fans.

“Adam Scott is iconic to Australian sport, not just because of his Masters victory but because of his commitment to his Australian fans,” Kirkman said.

Tickets for the PGA are now on sale at Ticketmaster.