Ian Poulter insists he is ready to rise to the challenge of defending his WGC-HSBC Champions title in Shanghai this week.
The English Ryder Cup star triumphed by two shots at Mission Hills last year, although the tournament has reverted to Sheshan International for Poulter’s defence.
“I'd like to defend the tournament this week and be holding that trophy again on Sunday night,” said the 37 year old, who is still looking for his first win of the season.
“I obviously played well last year and would like to do that again this year. A WGC makes it a very big tournament and 40 of the top players in the world are here and it would be another significant win.
“I don't think it changes my mentality at all. I've always had a ruthless approach I guess in a way of trying to win every single golf tournament I play in; obviously percentage terms I'm not going to do that very often, but I'd like to do it a little more.
“I don't feel I have any extra pressure than what I would put on myself in any normal given week, even though I'm defending champion. I'll approach the week like I do every other week - I expect myself to play well, I expect myself to certainly be in contention to have a chance to win on Sunday.”
On the venue that will stage the second event of The Race to Dubai Final Series, Poulter added: “I like the layout. I think it's a good course.
“I just need to obviously be able to deliver that on four rounds around this golf course. It's in good shape.
“There are a number of key holes around this golf course which will be a factor on Sunday afternoon. 16, the short par four; 18, a par five that we've seen birdies, bogeys, eagles, which will definitely be a factor.
“So I think it is a good golf course. It does lend itself to some precision iron play to get it close to some of these pins. If the greens stay firm, if we don't get any moisture, which we're not supposed to throughout this week, then some of the pin locations will be difficult to get to.
“Position off the tee to try and get the right angle to some of these pins will be a big advantage.”
Another player with previous in this event is Open Champion Phil Mickelson, who won here in 2007 and 2009.
“I've really enjoyed seeing what has happened to the HSBC Champions golf tournament as it's become one of the strongest events in the game of golf, and certainly the strongest event in Asia,” said the 43 year old.
“To be back here at Sheshan feels great for me personally because of the success I've had here, 2007, 2009. We had a great run last year at Mission Hills and I certainly enjoyed my time there, but I always enjoy spending time here in Shanghai, especially here at Sheshan.”
