The competition in Madrid will be played in summer conditions – Lindell has fond memories of last year’s final round
The DP World Tour season is entering its final stages, and the tour has moved from the British Isles to the Spanish sunshine. A brief thunderstorm raged during the practice days in Madrid, but summery weather is forecast from Wednesday onwards. However, the rain has left its mark on the course.
“There was a thunderstorm on Tuesday, and the pitch is still soft from the rain. The forecast is for good weather towards the end of the week. The course is different from last year, as tee shots will stay where they land when the ball doesn’t roll, and the preferred lies will be in use. We’re sure to see low scores at the start of the week,” reported Lindell.
Lindell’s visit to Madrid last year was something of a rollercoaster ride. The tournament featured two outstanding rounds, with Sunday’s round being the best of the entire field. There were also two weaker days in the mix, and his final position was T27. His performance last year depended much of his tee-shots, as Lindell hit an exceptional number of fairways with his driver. The same game plan is in place this time round as well.
“We’re playing aggressively off the tee here. The greens were in great condition during this morning’s Pro-Am, but their condition is deteriorating as the day goes on, as they’re soft. The putting itself has felt good.”
The Finn’s recent performances have been disappointing, particularly when it comes to putting. Last year, an attempt was made to turn things round in the same tournament by changing his putter for the opening round. This time, however, Lindell has not felt the need to do so.
Lindell will tee off from the 10th tee in the first group, alongside Davis Bryant of the United States and Sebastián García of Spain, at 9.40 Finnish time.
For the first time in a long while, the DP World Tour will feature two Finnish players in the same tournament, as Sami Välimäki returns from a long break to compete in the Madrid event ahead of the final tournaments of the PGA season.