Golf: Anirban Lahiri looking forward to the US Open

Anirban Lahiri

Bengaluru, June 5 (IANS)

Leading Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri is ready to come out with all guns blazing as he continues his quest for more glory at the US Open from June 18 to 21.

The current Asian Tour Order of Merit leader, who has already won twice this year, knows he has a great chance of doing well in the year's second Major. He will head to Chambers Bay Golf Club with that belief strongly fuelled by his recent playing opportunities in the United States.

“Preparations for the US Open have been very good so far. I spent an extended period of time in the States and I've become more comfortable playing there. I've got used to the crowd, the kind of competition and course conditions,” the World No. 45 said in a release on Friday.

“The field is obviously very deep and the competition is very tough. There are more people tied at the same scores than you can imagine. So you might be five shots off the lead, but you can still be in 50th position. It's very tight each week and you got to be at the top of your game,” added Lahiri.

Lahiri missed two out of six starts in the United States so far with a tied-49th finish in his Masters Tournament debut rated as one of the key positives.

“Last year was disappointing”

While the 27-year-old is heading back to the US with renewed confidence, he did not have it easy when he moved out of his comfort zone in Asia last year.

“I wish could just wipe off the memories of those two Majors (he missed the cuts at The Open Championship and PGA Championship) I played last year because of my health,” said Lahiri, whose Major ambitions then were severely dampened by illness and chicken pox last year.

“Fortunately for me this year, I'm looking at playing all four Majors especially with the US Open and the Open Championship coming up. They are obviously the two big ones after the Masters and I'm looking forward to making a mark this time. Last year was, no doubt, disappointing, but this year, I'm going to be fighting fit for it,” said Lahiri, who is now taking a break at home.

As Lahiri enjoys the comforts of home, he is already mapping out his plans for the rest of the season.

“I'm happy to be home as it gives myself a break both mentally and physically. I'll get a mid-season check-up with my coach and I will come back well prepared for the next half of the season.”

Lahiri, leader of the current Asian Tour season, aims to return for continental glory.

“I'm in a good position on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, but I know I can't take it easy too. I'll come back to the Asian Tour and play extensively starting with the Hong Kong Open,” said Lahiri.