Dunlap becomes first player in PGA Tour history to win as an amateur and a pro in the same year

RIYADH: Patty Tavatanakit is is ready to defend her title at the PIF Saudi Ladies International from 13-15 February at Riyadh Golf Club.

Reflecting on her off-season, Tavatanakit admitted she had not dwelled much on her three victories last year but instead remained focused on improvement and the road ahead.

The Thai player said: “I feel like, in the off-season, I hadn’t really reflected back on last year and the three wins. But I just kept on working and looking forward to this year already. I don’t know what to think or what to expect. 

“Coming into this week, I just really want to play my best. I’m working on some things right now. I just switched to a new coach, so I really want to focus on the process.” 

As the defending champion, she acknowledges the pressure but views it as a privilege.

“I feel like there’s always pressure. You're coming back as a defending champion. You’ve done it once. People expect you to do it again. But I could take it as a positive. Pressure is a privilege, and I’m very privileged to have that at the back of my mind.”

Last year was a strong season for Tavatanakit, with victories in Thailand, two additional top-10 finishes, and a third-place finish at The Amundi Evian Championship. However, she believes there’s still room for improvement.

“It was very, very important. A big boost in confidence, for sure. Earlier last year, I felt like my performance was there.

“At the same time though, I didn’t feel like I performed my best or had my form all year round. That’s something I’ve been working on this off-season — just trying to eliminate those big misses, tee to green, and cleaning things up on the putting green a little bit. You always want to get better, and that’s just golf.”

Tavatanakit also praised the efforts of PIF and Golf Saudi in growing the game globally. 

“What they’re doing for the game of golf in general is amazing. They’re showing their commitment. They’re here, they’re staying, and they’re trying to grow the game globally. Being a Golf Saudi ambassador this year, I’m really grateful to be a part of this journey.”

Carlota Ciganda also echoed similar sentiments about the event’s significance. 

The Spanish Solheim Cup star said: “I think it’s amazing what Golf Saudi are doing. I’ve been with them for the last three years and again this year. Very grateful for all the support and their commitment to women’s golf with all the tournaments on the Ladies European Tour, these team events. 

“Tournaments like this one with the same prize fund as the men — I think that’s changing women’s golf. It’s moving towards more equality, so I’m very happy to be a part of it.”

Tavatanakit’s primary goal for the season is clear: “I’d like to win this year. Very clear about that, very passionate about it. I’ll do anything I can to make that happen.”

As she prepares to defend her title, Tavatanakit emphasizes mental toughness. “I feel like the words “comfortable” and “confident” are kind of an illusion for me now. You just have togo out there regardless of how you feel. Just got to make it happen and accept that it’s golf — it’s not always going to look pretty.”

A previous team captain and winner in Riyadh, Ciganda embraces the format change. “I love playing for the team. It’s something I always enjoy. I love playing for my teammates, and I think the best comes out of me when I play for others as well.”

She also had words of encouragement for young players like Mimi Rhodes, who has previously stated Ciganda as a role model whilst growing up. 

“Young players nowadays are very ready to play. When they turn pro, they are much more prepared than 15 years ago. But I think it’s important to have fun, enjoy, and have a good team around you. It can be lonely sometimes, so having a coach and a team that supports you through good and bad times is really important. Just enjoy the process. Golf has ups and downs — that’s just how it is.” 

The Spaniard’s goal for the season? 

“Winning. Winning on the LPGA, winning here, winning majors — that’s what I want. Being European, the AIG Women’s Open is always special, but I’d be happy with any Major.” 

It’s all to play for as Tavatankit and Ciganda hope they can kick start their season with an all important win.