Thomas Detry says it would be a “dream come true” to claim an elusive DP World Tour title on home soil this week at the Soudal Open.
The Belgian will be a huge draw for the crowds at Rinkven International Golf Club on his return to European soil, having impressed in his rookie season on the PGA TOUR.
Detry is no stranger to being in contention on the DP World Tour, recording the most recent of his three runner-up finishes at the Scottish Open in 2021.
Now, back in his homeland for his fourth career appearance at his national open, the 30-year-old is hoping to continue his progression by putting himself in contention for a momentous triumph.
“I think it would mean everything,” he said when asked about the prospect of victory this week.
“I have obviously been very near a couple of times, and I have just tried not to think about it too much.
“I am just doing my own thing and I have my own longer-term focus and goals.
“Winning really is a bonus. I am sure it will happen someday but if it could happen this week then it would be a dream come true.”
Detry formed part of the winning European team at the inaugural Hero Cup team in Abu Dhabi in January but is not looking too far ahead with a Ryder Cup on the horizon in September.
“It’s funny, I kind of handle the Ryder Cup a little bit like the same as getting that first win,” he added.
“It’s not a goal that I try to think of all the time, it’s more a consequence of great play, achievements and goals reached.
“If I reach all these goals, then a win will come, and the Ryder Cup will come.”
Since earning his PGA TOUR card via the Korn Ferry Tour Finals last summer, Detry has enjoyed three tops tens – most recently at the Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic in March.
And after a three-week competitive break, the 2016 European Challenge Tour Graduate is excited about the immediate challenge ahead as he gets back into the swing of things.
“The level in Europe is really, really high,” he said.
“I just think that I have to play really well. No matter where you are, don’t take this week any lighter than a week in America.
“Every week is a good challenge, the guys here who are younger names are doing really well.
“Obviously, there is no Rory [McIlroy] here this week or Scottie Scheffler but the other guys who are here are really competitive and playing some really good golf, so you have just got to get after it and keep playing great golf and that is what I am hoping to do.”
As one of 14 Belgians in the field, Detry is aware of the extra focus on him this week as he looks to put on a show at a venue where he finished in a tie for third at his home event in 2019.
“It felt strange to be back but it is so good to see some familiar faces, obviously being back in Belgium is even better,” he said.
“You see some people that you know, friends and family. It is going to be a busy week – a lot of friends and family are going to come and watch me, so I am very much looking forward to it.”
