Rose prepares for Pinehurst

bruced
May 16, 2014

Justin Rose believes his form is following an upward curve as he prepares to defend his US Open title.

Last year, Rose became the first English player to win a major since Nick Faldo in 1996, and the first in 43 years to win the US Open.

This season, he has put together some solid performances including a 14th place at the Masters in Augusta.

“I finished eighth in New Orleans, fifth in Charlotte and fourth last week, so I’m trending in the right direction,” Rose told BBC Sport.

“I’ve not really been able to recreate that opportunity but hopefully Pinehurst will do that for me. It’s all about picking up a trophy now.”

Rose aims to use his winning experience at Pinehurst to his advantage at the US Open, which tees off June 12.

“I’ve played three majors now as a major champion,” said the six-time European Tour winner.

“I think turning up to majors having won one does feel different. You’ve got that extra bit of confidence that if you find yourself down the stretch on a Sunday, you’ve got a lot of positive experience to draw on.

“You know you’ve done it before, you know you’ve hit those shots under pressure before.

“I think that’s when it will help me. I’ve not really been able to recreate that opportunity but hopefully Pinehurst will do that for me.”

Aside from his aspirations in the Majors, the South African born golfer revealed that the Ryder Cup is also high on his priority list.

“It’s a big goal of mine to make the team as I’ve never experienced a home Ryder Cup,” said the 33-year-old.

“To play in front of a home set of fans would be amazing and I relish that opportunity.

“Winning as an individual a major championship is great because your hard work has paid off, but celebrating and winning as a team is one moment I will never forget.”