McDowell managing expectations
Being the defending champion is not always easy, but Graeme McDowell is determined to manage the expectations at the RBC Heritage.
The man from Northern Ireland came from four shots down at the start of the final day last year to tie with Webb Simpson after 72 holes, and then beat the American at the first play-off hole. It was only his second victory on the PGA Tour following his success at the 2010 US Open.
All eyes will no doubt be on the 34-year-old when the 2014 edition starts at the Sea Pines Resort on Thursday, but he knows he can’t afford to get distracted by everything that comes along with being the defending champion.
“Last year’s win was great, but it means nothing now,” he said. “Now, we have to treat it like another event, prepare how we always do, execute our game plan and hope things go well.
“I’m looking forward to getting back and managing the expectations of a defending champion this year. I’m aware of the pitfalls and don’t want to put too much pressure on myself.”
McDowell and his rivals battled strong winds on the final day and he was one of only a handful of players to shoot in the 60s with his two-under 69 earning him the play-off spot, and he once again expects to be tested this year.
“The Hilton Head area has always been on my radar and I feel like I can win here,” he said.
“It’s a very nice course that tests every facet of the game, and it’s stood the test of time. I’m excited to be coming back.”
Besides McDowell, 2013 runner-up Simpson will also return while Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, Luke Donald and Ernie Els have also signed up.
Latest
-
NewsUS Open winner Bryson DeChambeau ‘changing the way people think about the game’
The 27-year-old was the only player to break par on a demanding final day.
-
News5 things you might not know about US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau
DeChambeau can sign his autograph backwards with his left hand.
-
NewsBryson DeChambeau savours ‘blood, sweat and tears’ US Open triumph
The American won by six shots from compatriot Matthew Wolff.
-
NewsGeorgia Hall takes first US win in Portland
The English golfer recovered from a late stumble to win on the second play-off hole.
-
NewsBryson DeChambeau powers to victory in US Open
The American’s work in the gym during golf’s coronavirus shutdown appears to have paid off.
-
NewsBryson DeChambeau wins US Open with Winged Foot masterclass
The American finished six shots clear of compatriot Matthew Wolff,
-
NewsRory McIlroy unravels within minutes as Winged Foot bears its teeth
The four-time major winner found the fairway and green in regulation on the opening hole, but then four-putted from 90 feet.
-
NewsDistance debate set to roll on as errant drives fail to derail US Open hopefuls
Only two players had finished under par in five previous US Opens at Winged Foot.
-
NewsUS Open day three: Matthew Wolff stalks win in tournament debut
Wolff could become the first player to win the tournament on his championship debut since amateur Francis Ouimet’s triumph in 1913.
-
NewsMagnificent Matthew Wolff takes two-shot lead into final round of US Open
Victory on Sunday would make Wolff the first player to win the US Open on his debut since Francis Ouimet, 107 years ago to the day.