HIGH-FLYING HAOTONG TAKES AIM AT US MASTERS
SUBANG: If history can repeat itself for the third year in a row, then China’s Li Haotong could be on his way to pulling off a spectacular win at the US Masters in April.
The 22-year-old bagged the Omega Dubai Desert Classic last Sunday in the United Arab Emirates for his second European Tour victory.
Haotong’s career biggest victory was also a statement of intent as he compiled a stunning 23-under total to edge Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland by a stroke.
England’s Danny Willett and Spain’s Sergio Garcia were the Dubai Desert Classic winners of 2016 and 2017 before going on to secure the prestigious Green Jacket in the same year.
So does the in-form Haotong have what it takes to become the first Chinese Major winner?
Haotong feels nothing is impossible although he humbly played down the prospects.
“I don’t know, it could be really far and also could be really close.
“Sometimes one week can change everything. I always give my best in every event,” said Haotong, who became the highest ranked ever Chinese in the world ranking after the Dubai triumph propelled him to No. 32 on Monday.
Haotong will look to ride on his fine form to claim his career first back-to-back victory at the Maybank Championship.
He had already impressed on his first visit to the Saujana Golf and Country last year, finishing a creditable fifth.
“Last week’s victory, especially against Rory, gave me a lot of confidence and I am feeling great.
“I think my game is pretty solid and I’m putting very well,” he said.
“This week I will just try to save some energy for the week and hopefully play well and enjoy the pressure.
“It’s been really good, especially this course. If you put the ball on the fairway all the time, you are going to make a lot of birdies.”