Hails from Düsseldorf, the same city as Martin Kaymer and, like the 2010 US PGA Champion, is now a Challenge Tour champion after claiming his maiden title at the Gujarat Kensville Challenge, the first event of the 2012 season. Showed nerves of steel to see off home favourite Rahil Gangjee at the first extra hole, making amends for his play-off defeat to compatriot Nicolas Meitinger in the 2011 ALLIANZ Challenge de France. It marked a successful maiden voyage to India for the 20 year old, who was picked to compete in the 2010 Bonallack Trophy in Bangalore, before the event was cancelled due to the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud. His winner’s cheque for €32,000 helped him take 14th place in the 2012 Challenge Tour Rankings and earn a rookie season on The European Tour in 2013.