Wilson relishing return to Leopard Creek

England’s Oliver Wilson is looking to build on a strong 2019 campaign when the 2020 season starts at one of his favourite courses.

Wilson finished 66th on the Race to Dubai Rankings Presented by Rolex in 2019 – his best finish for five years – and is now keen to continue his good form at the Alfred Dunhill Championship.

Leopard Creek is one of the most iconic venues on the European Tour and former Ryder Cup star Wilson, who finished tied for fifth last year, is certainly a fan of the venue in Kruger National Park.

“The 2019 season went reasonably well, so I’m looking forward to the new season, and I hope I get a good couple of tournaments in before Christmas,” said Wilson.

“This is one of my favourites anywhere in the world. It’s a phenomenal place, one that I’ve been in love with for the last 15 years since I first came down here. 

“It’s a special place and I’ve always enjoyed coming back here. I haven’t played that well here. I played well last year but overall, I haven’t really got into contention very often, so I’d like to rectify that.

“If I play decent, I’ll get into contention. It’s kind of that simple. My game is improving all the time, so if I can play how I have been then I feel confident.

“If I can get it in play off the tee and in positions to be able to be a little bit more aggressive, then that’s the key for me.”

Another player looking to get a head start in the 2020 Race to Dubai is Edoardo Molinari and the Italian believes the field this week are in for a tough examination.

“It’s a great golf course and I think with these changes – last year, they made it even better," he said. "It’s a very tough test.

“You have to play well with every part of your game. You have to keep the ball in play off the tee; it’s a big advantage if you hit it a long way because of the par-fives; and you have to be accurate with your irons as well. It just tests every part of your game and it’s one of the best courses we play all year.

“Even before the new grass, it was always the best players who are up there on Sundays.

“I didn’t have a break this winter because I feel like I’m playing well. I felt like last year that I played better than my scores suggested. I’ve worked on my putting for the last month or so while I was home and I feel like I’ve turned the corner with my putting. So I feel like I can compete any week now.”