The Guardian (Charlottetown)

‘An amazing display of golf’

LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam full of praise for Henderson ahead of major

- BY ADAM STANLEY

Annika Sorenstam has learned a thing or two about what it takes to be the best.

So when the World Golf Hall of Fame member says Canada’s Brooke Henderson is well on her way to becoming one of the top players on the LPGA Tour, it makes sense to pay attention.

Henderson’s emotional win at the CP Women’s Open last month in Regina could be just the beginning, the 72-time winner on the LPGA Tour said in an interview ahead of the final major of the season – the Evian Championsh­ip, starting Thursday in Evianles-Bains, France.

“What Brooke did was an amazing display of golf,” Sorenstam said of Henderson’s triumph, which ended a 45-year drought for Canadians at their national championsh­ip.

“If this continues, she will soon be one of the best in the world.”

Sorenstam, who in 2014 was named the best Swedish female athlete in history, won three times in Sweden during her career.

She’s also a two-time winner of the Evian Championsh­ip, where Henderson will try to put an exclamatio­n mark on a memorable year.

Sorenstam said she likes Henderson’s game, which mixes an aggressive approach off the tee with a nice short game.

The combinatio­n, she said, is going to be beneficial for the native of Smiths Falls, Ont., for years to come.

“She has gotten off to a quick start in her young career,” Sorenstam said of Henderson, who turned 21 on Monday. “I am sure there will be many more wins to follow.”

Henderson has unfinished business at the Evian. She finished tied for ninth and tied for 25th in 2016 and 2015, respective­ly. Last year’s tournament was shortened to 54 holes due to weather, and she finished tied for 58th.

“It’s a beautiful golf course – usually challengin­g with the weather – but I think it suits my game well, particular­ly with how I’m striking the ball right now,” said Henderson.

 ?? CP PHOTO ?? Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont., celebrates her win at the CP Women’s Open in Regina, Aug. 26.
CP PHOTO Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont., celebrates her win at the CP Women’s Open in Regina, Aug. 26.

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