Young Li Haotong hopes for a great debut in Mauritius

Asian Tour Release

May 11, 2016: Chinese star Li Haotong hopes to make it a week to remember when he makes his debut at the second edition of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open which starts on Thursday.

The 20-year-old Li, who enjoyed a career breakthrough on home soil a fortnight ago, will be part of the international field ready to contend against the leading players from the Asian, European and Sunshine Tours in the €1 million (approximately US$1.09 million) event.

He will be joined by young Korean duo Soomin Lee and Jeunghun Wang, both recent winners on the European Tour, at the Four Seasons Golf Club Mauritius in Anahita which is hosting the event for the first time.

“It’s my first time here and I’m enjoying it so far. I haven’t been around but would definitely love to explore the island if I have the time this week. My aim is to play well and earn more world ranking points to solidify my position on the Olympic rankings,” said Li, who broke into the Olympic frame after winning on the European Tour.

“Winning on home soil a couple of weeks back has boosted my confidence as I was struggling to play well for about eight weeks before my win. It will be a dream come true if I can qualify for the Olympics,” he added.

Despite gaining much-need confidence from his win two weeks ago, Li conceded he has to stay patient in the windy conditions at the host venue this week.

“The golf course is looking good. It’s very windy but I think it’s fair because everyone plays under the same conditions. I will have to stay patient. It will be the key to play well. I just want to play my own game and enjoy myself out there. The pressure to play well is always going to be there. It’s a very nice environment here. It makes you feel relaxed and I hope that will help me play well this week,” said Li.

Young Filipino Miguel Tabuena, Australian Scott Hend, Singapore’s Mardan Mamat and Thai hotshots Danthai Boonma and Natipong Srithong will all feature in the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.