Italian golfer Matteo Manassero isn’t just playing golf; he’s orchestrating a masterful symphony on the greens.
His latest first-round performance at the Hero Indian Open has left spectators in awe as he shares the lead after a stunning first round.
“Today was a really special day. I played so good from tee to green. Every time a tournament starts there’s a blank page.
You prepare but on a course like this things can go the wrong way very easily.
Today from the tee and into the greens I was extremely solid, so I’m really pleased about that and the result with not making any bogeys on a course like this. Seven under par is really good.
“It’s never easy. I tried to be as focused as possible and as hungry as possible last Thursday, but it wasn’t my week.
I made a lot of birdies but dropped so many shots. It’s never easy, there’s a lot of congratulations and greetings – which is really nice – but it makes you feel too relaxed to perform.
You need to be on the spot to perform and with a positive tension and adrenaline. I wouldn’t say I got it back today, it’s just I played really well and last week I dropped too many shots, that’s the difference. It’s never easy to come back after a win.” – Matteo Manassero
With a bogey-free seven under par 65, Manassero showcased his flawless skill set, dominating the formidable Gary Player Course at DLF Golf & Country Club. His round included five birdies and an eagle, a testament to his unwavering focus and precision.
But Manassero isn’t alone at the top. Joining him in the spotlight are Joost Luiten from the Netherlands and Japan’s Keita Nakajima, both with equally impressive performances.
Luiten’s round, marked by nine birdies and two bogeys, mirrors the determination and grit required to excel at this level.
Meanwhile, Nakajima’s back nine surge, finishing six under par, adds another layer of excitement to the leaderboard.
Yet, the competition remains fierce, with English duo Sam Bairstow and Jordan Smith, alongside Frenchman Romain Langasque, hot on their heels.
Bairstow’s recent stellar performance at the Porsche Singapore Classic underscores his potential as a formidable opponent.
And let’s not forget the local talent making their mark. Indian golfers Om Prakash Chouhan, Karandeep Kochhar, and Aman Raj, holding their own among the best, share 14th place with impressive rounds of 68.
As the tournament unfolds, anticipation builds. Will Manassero maintain his momentum? Can Luiten and Nakajima keep pace?
Only time will tell as these golfing virtuosos continue to captivate audiences with their skill and determination.
