Eddie Pepperell did some original preparation ahead of his first round in three months at the DS Automobiles Italian Open, and his hard work paid off as he carded an opening 69.
Having not teed it up since February's Singapore Classic, the Englishman geared up for his trip to Marco Simone Golf & Country Club by using a simulator.
And Pepperell enjoyed a strong return to competitive action on Thursday as he carded an eagle at the long 12th as well as two birdies and two bogeys to reach two under par.
He said: "I spent some good time at home. I had a simulator installed at home so I've done quite a bit of work on my swing.
My 3 months off is coming to an end. It’s been made a lot easier with a sim in the house! 😁
— Eddie Pepperell (@PepperellEddie) April 29, 2023
Even managed to practice at Marco Simone a few times… so no excuses.
Excited to get my year going 💪🏼 pic.twitter.com/EzLRCqITTL
"I've played quite a few times on this course at home on the simulator. I loaded up the first tee quite a lot, the fourth - the par three, the seventh - the par three.
"Just some shots that I find out there you need to have a really strong swing feel on.
"Dare I say it I think it probably did me quite well, to be honest. Just to load up some holes.
"And it's amazing how realistic these simulators are these days.
"It was good."
