Lahiri sets his eyes on Rio Olympics

February 18, 2014: Being country’s top ranked pro golfer on Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) doesn’t satisfy Anirban Lahiri , but the World No. 106 has his target set for 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. The 26-year-old from Bangalore wants to put in everything required  to improve his world rankings in next two year to qualify for the Olympics.

As per qualification norms two top golfers from the country will qualify for the Olympics and Lahiri being highest ranked at the moment, followed by Gaganjeet Bhullar and Shiv Kapur at 143rd and 144th positions, respectively, will be among the second one.

[highlight]  I really want to get into the top 10 if possible. That`s my dream, of playing in the majors, in America where the best players play. But as a (realistic) target I want to get into the top 50 or 60 next year [/highlight]

“The top two world ranked golfers from India would qualify for the Olympic Games. As of now I am the highest ranked. Then there is Gaganjeet (Bhullar) and Shiv (Kapur),” Lahiri told media men at a press conference on Louise Philip Cup tournament in Mumbai.

“I don`t know exactly when the cut-off date is, but as the Olympics are in 2016, I don`t expect it to be before end of 2015, which basically means I have got 24 months not only to maintain my level but to improve and get into the Olympics.

“If I go there only with the goal of being where I am then I will only move backwards. I want to better my golf, better my ranking. It will improve my chances of playing and that`s what I will try to do,” said the 26-year-old golfer, who is number 3 on the Asian Order of Merit.

Lahiri called 2013 as his best year on the golf pro circuit so far. He further added that he aims to break into the top 50 and gain a direct entry into the US PGA Tour though he is also looking at the European Tour and Japan Tour as well.

“Without doubt 2013 has been my best year as a pro. I think I moved up about 120 spots in world rankings. I won internationally (two titles). It`s definitely been my most consistent year,” said the Bangalore-based player.

“I really want to get into the top 10 if possible. That`s my dream, of playing in the majors, in America where the best players play. But as a (realistic) target I want to get into the top 50 or 60 next year,” Lahiri, who is currently ranked 106 after climbing to his career-best of 101 last month, added.