Hong Kong, Nov 29: Chinese Taipei’s Lin Wen-tang will be looking to hitch a ride back in the time machine and revive his glory days of 2008 when he returns to the Hong Kong Golf Club for the prestigious $1.3 million Hong Kong Open next week.
2008 was undoubtedly one of Lin’s best seasons since he turned professional in 1996. He won twice, including the Hong Kong Open, finished second on the Asian Tour Order of Merit before going on to break into the world’s top-50.
Lin defeated former World No.1 Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland in a thrilling play-off that year.
“Winning the Hong Kong Open back in 2008 was the best result I had in my golf career. It was a turning point for me and it definitely holds a lot of good memories. I do feel some pressure going back as people recognise me now. I’ll definitely try my best to win it again as it’s a very important tournament for me,” said the 39-year-old.
“I’m very familiar with that course and I’ve always played well there. The course design is pretty similar to the ones in Chinese Taipei. It makes me feel like I’m playing at home,” said Lin.
Since winning his fourth Asian Tour title here in 2008, Lin has gone on to notch another two titles including one in the Philippines this year. He is hopeful of another grandstand finish but is careful not to aggravate his wrist again which had forced him to miss the World Cup of Golf last week.
“My wrist still hurts a little despite my rest and treatment. However, it’s getting better and hopefully the pain will not act up again.”
The Hong Kong Open is the city’s oldest professional sporting event where its early beginning dates back to 1959. It is co-sanctioned by the European Tour, Asian Tour and the Hong Kong Golf Association.
