Henrik Stenson hopes his improved second round showing in Abu Dhabi can pave the way for another successful week at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters.
The Swede, who won this event in 2006 and has been runner-up three times, missed the cut last week in the first event of The Race to Dubai’s Desert Swing, but believes the improvements shown between his first round 76 and second round 68 bodes well.
“At least I played better the second day than the first day,” joked the former European Number One.
“Of course I hope to improve on last week's performance this week.
“It's early in the year and a work in progress, but I felt like I played half decent out there.
“I don't know what the forecast is, but normally we get our fair share of wind here, which is part of the course defence and makes it play better.
“I feel okay; I certainly have played better than I am doing, but I'm sure we can probably find a few times where we played worse, as well.”
Stenson’s four wins in the Middle East have him tied with Ernie Els for most European Tour titles in the region, and the two have been paired with defending champion Sergio Garcia for the opening rounds.
“It has been a good hunting ground - I guess I've figured out a decent way to play the course, and I've done some good scores over the years in windy conditions, as well,” added Stenson.
“It sets up quite nicely in that way, and then of course it's down to how well I can play here this week. The day before the tournament, it's going to be some final practice and preparations and I'm going to head out there and see what we can do.
“I’ve got a strong pairing with Ernie, second week now playing with Ernie, and Sergio is back in action, so we'll have good fun out there. It's a good group, so looking forward to it.
“It's just a good way for me to start off the season and I enjoy playing these weeks.”
