Carlos Ortiz lines up for International Series India presented by DLF hoping to reproduce the same early-season form that secured a victory last term at the campaign-opening International Series Oman.
The Torque GC star lines up in a strong field alongside captain Joaquin Niemann and team-mate Sebastian Munoz, three of 13 LIV Golf stars battling it out with the Asian Tour’s finest at the DLF Golf and Country Club in the first of 10 elevated events across the calendar that form a pathway onto the LIV Golf League for players from all over the world.
The Mexican won by four shots last year at the stunning Al Mouj Golf in Muscat. The 33-year-old is hoping for a similar performance and result at the equally impressive Gary Player-designed course in Gurugram.
He won’t have it easy, with reigning US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau in a strong field along with his Crushers GC team-mates, Paul Casey and home favourite Anirban Lahiri.
Ortiz admits a lot will be down to who handles the iconic course the best. He said: “I think every time we play, we try to win. It would be awesome to do it here. It is a really impressive golf course, it is unbelievable - immaculate. We are really happy to be here and excited about what the week is going to bring.
“It can be difficult if you do not play well and it can be easy if you play well. So far, I have only seen nine holes. I heard the back nine is a little more challenging but it is in great condition, so there are no excuses. You have to hit the ball well, and that is going to separate the good player from the others.”
Ortiz and Niemann kicked off the week in style by participating in the tournament's rooftop challenge opener at The Camellias building, setting the stage for an exciting week filled with activities and world-class golf.
Ortiz is delighted to be in India with skipper Niemann, who won the season-ending PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers last month, and teammate Munoz for a last-minute tune up ahead of their LIV Golf season opener next week in Riyadh.
Ortiz said: “It is great to have these guys. We really enjoy travelling and playing together, so it always makes it easy when you travel around the world with good friends.
“A strong start is crucial. It reflects the work you have done in the offseason and sets the tone for the year. Competing here helps us gauge where our game is as we prepare for the LIV Golf season.”
A record-breaking turnout is expected at the DLF Golf and Country Club over four days and many will be out to follow DeChambeau’s progress.
Ortiz is not surprised by the interest in the two-time Major winner and said: “Bryson is changing how people view golf. He is a pioneer, much like Tiger Woods was. His power and unique approach to the game have drawn new fans, which is great for the sport.”
The International Series is the most prized pathway in golf. It consists of 10 elite tournaments sanctioned by the Asian Tour and offers the year-long Rankings leader promotion to the LIV Golf League
