Singapore: China’s Feng Shanshan will spearhead an all‐star cast at next month’s HSBC Women’s World Championship.
The world number one is setting her sights on claiming a maiden victory in the tournament over the New Tanjong Course (March 1-4) at Sentosa Golf Club, a Golf Course Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
Feng rose to the top of the standings following a fine run of form at the end of 2017 that saw her clinch back-to-back victories in China and Japan and post a runner-up finish in Malaysia.
The affable 28-year-old is hoping a return to Asia will inspire her to lift a trophy that has eluded her over the past decade.
However, with all of the world’s top-10 ranked players confirming their participation in the tournament, Feng will need to be at the top of her game.
In addition to defending champion Park In-bee and the quintet of 2017 Major winners already announced, the New Tanjong course will welcome American Lexi Thompson, Korean Chun In-gee and three former world number ones – Thai Ariya Jutanugarn, American Cristie Kerr and New Zealand’s Lydia Ko.
Speaking about her chances this year, Feng said: “I had a great end to 2017 and then took a bit of time off to rest. I’m now raring to go again.
“It was good to get back out on the course again in the Bahamas and I’m really looking forward to playing back in Asia.
“That’s where I feel most at home and I guess it’s no surprise that that’s where I play my best golf.
“The HSBC Women’s World Championship is one of the top events we get to play in every year. It’s always super competitive and you need to be at the top of your game to win it. Hopefully I can bring my best game this year!”
Another player who knows all about winning is 20-time LPGA Tour winner Kerr.
The 40-year-old muscled her way back into the top-10 in 2017 with no fewer than 10 top-10 finishes, including wins at the LOTTE Championship and Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia.
Kerr said: “I’m looking forward to coming back to Singapore to compete in the HSBC Women’s World Championship.
“2017 was a great year for me and I’m looking forward to carrying that momentum into this season.
“Singapore’s always tough, though. The conditions are challenging and it’s always a very strong field, bit I’m looking forward to getting back out there and giving it my best shot.”