Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee is targeting a return to his best form at the Avantha Masters after recovering from injury.
The 42 year old’s last victory came on the Asian Tour in 2010, but in 2011 he was plagued by back problems and the closest he came to victory was at the Indonesian Masters, where he was second behind Lee Westwood.
He is now nearing full fitness, however, and is looking forward to competing at DLF Golf and Country Club in New Delhi, India next week.
“I had a back injury after the Avantha Masters last year and that didn’t help my season,” he said. “But I’m confident this year will be a better year compared to 2011.
“My fitness level is about 85 to 90% now as I’ve been putting in more hours in the gym and that has helped.
“I also struggled with my putting last year so I’ve put in extra hours on that. I’ve changed a bit of my swing and putting with my coach Peter Wolfenstetter and the work is starting to show in my game.”
Thongchai added: “One of the positive aspects of my game is that I’m never worried. I’m happy with my golf game and I enjoy my life. I like playing golf and training and that’s kept me going all these years.”
An elite field will gather in New Delhi for the third time the Avantha Masters has been part of The European Tour International Schedule. SSP Chowrasia will defend his title, and he will be joined by his Indian compatriots Jeev Milkha Singh and Shiv Kapur, as well as 2010 champion Andrew Dodt and two-time Major Champion John Daly.
The Avantha Masters, which is tri-sanctioned by The European Tour, Asian Tour and Professional Golf Tour of India, holds a significant place on the Asian Tour Schedule as it is the richest tournament in the country with a €1.8 million prize fund.
