Min Woo Lee is hoping he can ride the wave of momentum he has built in his game over the last year as he returns for his second appearance at the Masters Tournament.
The Australian has three top-15 finishes worldwide so far this year, including a runner-up at the first Rolex Series event of the year at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in January.
He has since finished in a tie for sixth at last month’s THE PLAYERS Championship when he was in the final group, and admits confidence is high ahead of the first Major Championship of the season.
“I feel like I am a better golfer than last year,” he said.
“I have had a lot of experience in between then and now. I am really happy to be back.
“I have been loving the way I have been playing. Obviously, some learning curves thrown at me, but it is nice when you have a really good week and also you learn, especially at THE PLAYERS.”
To my team, family, friends and fans. I’m delighted to tell you some news. We are heading back to heaven on Earth. Augusta, see you soon 💚🌺 @TheMasters pic.twitter.com/Q5FyV9q4d9
— Min Woo Lee (@Minwoo27Lee) March 25, 2023
On his Augusta debut, Lee carded a final-round 70 which included a record-tying 30 on the front nine and the 24-year-old believes he has matured as a golfer since then.
“I have learned not to get too ahead of myself,” he said.
“It is really easy to just carry on and forget about the shot. Hopefully I have learned over the last year or so to just stay in the moment.”
Lee secured his invite back to Augusta at the recent WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play in Texas, where he needed to win at least one group match to confirm his spot in the top 50 on the Official World Golf Ranking.
Tied 14th on debut and an equal best front 9 scoring at Augusta! On a Sunday baby🤩 A week that I wish never ended. Unreal experience, my first time playing at the Masters. I appreciate all the love and support I received over the week. Until next time, Augusta 💚🌺 @TheMasters pic.twitter.com/N9No62kIgA
— Min Woo Lee (@Minwoo27Lee) April 11, 2022
And his recent performances have given him encouragement that he can contend for the Green Jacket and return to the winner’s circle for the first time since his Scottish Open success in July 2021.
“It is my favourite course and my favourite tournament,” he said. “It’s a special week so hopefully I can play well.
“Obviously I would like a W. My game is really close.
“I have knocked on the door a few times over last six months but again I’ve got to just enjoy it. I love playing well while enjoying interacting with the fans. It’s time to lock in but it’s also nice to have fun.”
