Surrounded by golfing royalty in China this week at the WGC–HSBC Champions, WGC debutants Matt Fitzpatrick, Thomas Pieters and James Morrison are looking to replicate the sort of form that has seen them qualify for such a prestigious event, at the Sheshan International Golf Club this week.
The talented trio, who have all made big impressions on The European Tour this season, have been rewarded for their form and results with a place among the stellar field that has gathered for the second event of the Final Series.
The likes of Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, Henrik Stenson and Bubba Watson will also be teeing it up in Shanghai this week, and whilst he is happy to be rubbing shoulders with such illustrious company, Pieters is treating the season’s final World Golf Championships event like any other.
“It feels good to make it here and I’m excited to get going, but it’s just another hotel, another driving range and another golf tournament to try and win,” said the two-time European Tour winner.
“It feels right to be here, so hopefully I’ll be in these events a lot more in the future. But it doesn’t change the way I approach the week - I’m always disappointed if I’m not up there at the end of the tournament.”
Sheshan International GC suits the big-hitters, so Pieters might be able to use that to his advantage.
Fitzpatrick, meanwhile, has also been able to make a huge impression this season, despite not being able to draw on the same power the Belgian possesses.
But the English rookie has been able to utilise other weapons in his game to register six top three finishes on The European Tour this season, and he is keen to continue his progress here.
“I want to enjoy the week. It’s already been a great experience with the brilliant facilities that are on offer here,” said the British Masters supported by Sky Sports winner, before admitting he had been surprised the quality of the field.
“I have to admit, I didn't really realise the strength of the field, but that’s not a bad thing. That’s why we play the game – to be able to compete with the best. Matt Fitzpatrick
“We’ll stick to the game plan we've made and execute that as best we can. It was a goal of mine to make all four Final Series events, and although I didn't really know what to expect, now I’m here I want to make the most of the experience.”
Morrison, who will partner Pieters in the first group out, has also achieved some very good results this season, most notably winning the Open de España back in June.
The Englishman, who is 23rd in The Race to Dubai Rankings, gave the event and field a ringing endorsement when we spoke to him on the pristine driving range.
“I’m really excited to be here, and to be honest it feels like a Major with all of the best American players coming over, along with the best guys from Europe, so I’m just buzzing to get my first WGC going,” said the Englishman.
“I got here through my Race to Dubai Ranking and by being consistent, so it really feels like I’ve earnt my place, as opposed to winning one event. I’m playing really well, so hopefully I can show that here this week.”
Pieters will hit the first tee shot of the 2015 WGC – HSBC Champions at 08:50 local time alongside Morrison, while Fitzpatrick, who has Harris English and Wenchong Liang for company will get his challenge started at 09:30.
