Pornanong Phatlum believes her victory in the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters had the feel of a major that took her confidence to a new level.
“The experience gained from playing in Dubai showed in my results on the LPGA Tour where I have done pretty well this season,” said the 25-year-old Thai ace, referring to her seven top-10 finishes, including a second at Sime Darby in Malaysia.
“I am feeling quite good about my coming to Dubai and, hopefully, I will be able to defend my title. I love the course, I love the weather and I am feeling quite relaxed after playing a practice round,” she said ahead of the season-ending Ladies European Tour event, starting on Wednesday.
About her chances of retaining the title, she said: “There are many strong players in the field from the Ladies European Tour and also from the LPGA Tour. So, I think, we in for a strong competition.
“Last year, I celebrated my birthday (December 4) in Dubai with a victory. I am trying to do the same things again, hoping I will be lucky again. You never know,” she said.
Phatlum, who finished runner-up to China’s Shanshan in Malaysia earlier this year, will be aiming to keep the record straight and end the year with a win.
“Certainly, I will be keeping an eye on Shanshan, but I don’t want to put myself under pressure thinking about any revenge. She has also played very well this year,” she said, adding: “I love the way Shanshan plays her game. She always quite relaxed out there.”
About her goals for 2015, she said: “I would love to win at least one event on the LPGA Tour and be in the Top 10. This year my goal was top 30 which I have achieved already.”
