In 2014, David Lipsky became the first American to the win Omega European Masters in 29 years, before being dethroned by Danny Willett last year. In his player blog, the Las Vegas player discusses the road less travelled to the top, living out of a suitcase and his love for Crans Montana.
The Omega European Masters is one of my favourite tournaments in the world.I don’t think there’s a more beautiful setting to have an event. The fact that I’ve won here and played well here makes it even better, so I always look forward to coming back. I played The Open Championship at St Andrews so it’s hard to top that but in terms of non-Major events, this is definitely my number one. It’s everything - the scenery, the golf course, the people here. The town of Crans Montana is amazing as well.
I definitely think my route to the European Tour is the road less travelled.It’s a journey that I’ve enjoyed and I think that there’s a perception that in America we’re closed-minded and isolationist, but I think that the more American golfers who come out to Europe, Asia or wherever and see the world and meet different people - I believe that not only would that make them better players, but it would make them more well-rounded characters. My success on the Asian Tour and European Tour has caused a lot of my friends to come out to Asia and Europe and give it a go.
Being one of only a few Americans to come over and play in Europe, there’s a little bit of an adjustment periodin terms of learning new places, cultures, but the European Tour and its players and staff have made it very hospitable. I think that’s something that I’ve enjoyed and I’ve made a lot of friends and shared some great experiences with them. Everyone is pretty tight knit out here. I’ve ticked a lot of countries off the list. I enjoy the travelling. When I was younger I didn’t get to travel too much as I was so focused on golf and school so I didn’t have that chance, but now that I do I’m trying to take full advantage of it.
Living out of a suitcase has both its good and bad points- I’m only back home in the US for 15 weeks a year so when I am back home it’s nice - but I don’t mind it and count myself very lucky that I can come back to places like this. I live in Las Vegas. It can be tiring living there, but I love it. When I go back to the US I want a place to relax and have a great time. I don’t like the quiet life, so Las Vegas is good for me.
It was nice to see Paul (Peterson) win the D+D REAL Czech Masters.I’ve known him since we were playing on the Asian Tour together and he’s a great player and a nice guy so it’s great for him to breakthrough.
I got to know Bryson (Dechambeau) a little bit earlier this year too.We played three years ago when he was an amateur at SMU, so it was before he really kicked off and became the great player that he is, so yeah I’ve known for a few years now. He’s a very analytical guy, and although I’m not as analytical as he is, I do pay attention to that side of the game. I like to understand what causes everything to happen, I look at my stats. I don’t use a green book, but I think that you have to try and find a balance.
I’ve been playing well of late and figuring some things out with my coach, and everything is finally clicking. It’s a great time of year for that to happen so I’m looking forward to a strong finish. Lessons with Pete (Cowen) are always intense, but working with him and Mike Walker has made me a better player and helped me to understand my game more. Those guys help me so much.
My goals for the future are to become as good as I can be.In terms of this year to make it to the final event would be amazing. The last couple of weeks have put me in a decent position to do that so hopefully I can carry on and try to get there!
