Germany's Martin Kaymer is delighted to be back at the KLM Open after a three year absence from the tournament.
The two time Major Champion, who won the event at Hilversumsche Golf Club in 2010 less than a month after claiming the US PGA Championship, last competed in the Netherlands in 2012.
Kaymer is happy to return to the country and this week's host course Kennemer Golf and Country Club, seven years after his last appearance at the venue.
The 30 year old said: "It’s nice to be back at one of the oldest tournaments on the European Tour. It can be tricky here and when the wind blows it can be very tight.
"You need to drive it well and the greens are slopey, but I think if you hit the fairways you should have many chances because it’s not very long.
"Hilversumsche was probably the closest European Tour venue to my home, even though it isn’t in Germany. Here as well, it’s only two and a half hours from Dusseldorf.
"It’s always nice to be able to drive to a tournament and it does make a difference having your car with you."
After spending much of his time playing in America in recent weeks, the World Number 21 is relishing the prospect of teeing off on European soil.
He added: "I’m incredibly relieved to come back to Europe after that long stretch in America fighting to make the FedEx Cup play-offs.
"At the time of course I wanted to make the play-offs, but now I’m happy that I can be back here.
"It’s natural that when you can play at home or near where you’re from, it’s always more comfortable, so I’m enjoying being here and I’m looking forward to it.
"It’s different being in Europe and playing different kinds of golf courses. It makes it interesting as well when a tournament moves around courses, like this one."
Kaymer, who finished fourth at the Alstom Open de France in July, is happy with his recent form.
He said: "I’ve been playing really well since the French Open, although I haven’t won. I’ve been close to the top ten a few times. I was in Phoenix last week to practise for this week and the rest of the year.
"It all comes down to the putting and I spent a lot of time on the putting green. It’s something I’m hoping will pay off quickly, but I’ll need to be patient."
Kaymer will get his opening round under way at 1325 on Thursday, alongside Søren Kjeldsen and 2014 Ryder Cup star Jamie Donaldson.
