Revitalised Ko sets her sights on grand slam
Lydia Ko says a career grand slam of major titles is her new goal after ticking off an Olympics appearance.
The world No 1 has two majors to her name at the age of 19 and needs the other three to achieve her goal.
Ko spoke to international media on a conference call ahead of her resumption which will come at next month’s Australian open.
It’s a season of change for Ko with new clubs, apparel, caddie and a soon-to-be-named coach. But she made it clear she remains as driven as ever.
‘‘I’m very fortunate with the things that have happened in my career,’’ Ko said.
‘‘My proudest moment was to represent New Zealand at the Olympics. I’m a huge sports fan so for me to be an athlete and Olympian now is something that I’m very proud of and to have been able to stand on the podium and getting a silver medal at the end of the week was an amazing experience.
‘‘Results-wise, a grand slam is a pretty big goal of mine and a dream that I would love to be able to achieve.’’
Ko struggled with her game towards the end of 2016 and made some tough calls over her support staff, including sacking coaches David Leadbetter and Sean Hogan as well as caddie Jason Hamilton.
She still judges 2016 as a success, though is hoping for a steadier 2017.
‘‘It wasn’t the greatest end to my season but overall it was a season for me to be proud of but obviously I have had a lot of changes,’’ Ko said.
‘‘Hopefully these changes are for the better. For now, I don’t regret them and I respect the people I work with and I feel like I have learnt more about my game and grown as a player and a person. This year I just want to stay positive and have a lot of fun.
‘‘I’m more excited than worried. Sometimes change is a good thing and even though these are big changes, it’s going to be an exciting time for me.’’
She brushed off criticism by Leadbetter about the over-bearing influence of her parents.
‘‘Ever since day one, my parents have been with me. They are a huge part of my career and without them I wouldn’t be here in this position.
‘‘Even though sometimes we have different opinions, I know that all they want is the best for me. They’re a huge part of my career ... and I know they’ll always be there to support and guide me.’’
Ko emphasised she was strongly enthused by the game.
‘‘I’m still having a lot of fun. I love being on tour, playing alongside the world’s best golfers, travelling the world, seeing awesome golf courses, visiting different places and experiencing different cultures,’’ she said.
But her changes might stretch to an even more personal level.
‘‘My new year resolution would be to use my (mobile) phone less. I always seem to be on my phone a lot, I’m a little bit of a tech freak,’’ she laughed.