September 1, 2016: Danny Willett returns to the Omega European Masters and the breath-taking surroundings of Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club to make his first title defence of the 2016 season, as the Englishman aims to rekindle the form which has made him the Masters Tournament champion and Race to Dubai leader.
The 28 year old’s one-stroke victory in Crans Montana last year earned him a third of five European Tour titles and he has since scaled new heights by claiming his first Major at Augusta National last April. Although his form of late has not been quite up to his usual high standard, he believes the fond memories this week could give him a timely boost.
“It’s been a pretty epic 12 months and the golf hasn’t been fantastic over the last two or three months but I’m just trying to get everything back on track now. I’m working really hard and hopefully coming back to a place I like and feel comfortable on will help and hopefully I can have a good week here.”, said Danny Willet.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the prestigious event in the Swiss Alps and it once again boasts a strong field, with Willett joined by fellow countryman and former World Number One Lee Westwood as well as 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland.
Miguel Angel Jiménez makes his 27th appearance at an event which the Spaniard won back in 2010 while the Asian Tour contingent in the co-sanctioned tournament is led by July’s 100th Open de France champion Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand.
“I think I have a good chance this year. I have no complaints at all. The golf course is better than the last few years. The fairways are perfect and the greens are smooth. It is nice to be back here.” , said Jaidee.
European Tour Release
