South African confident despite strongest ever line-up in Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship

Following the best season of his career, Charl Schwartzel, the reigning US Masters champion, has revealed his New Year’s resolution – to win the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, running from 26th to 29th January at Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s National Course.

Schwartzel’s historic year teed off with him defending his Johannesburg Open title before he went on to clinch his maiden Major victory, make his debut Presidents Cup appearance and represent his country in golf’s world cup.

His impressively consistent form boosted him up the rankings to finish the year as the world’s number nine and he is hoping that he can carry this form into the capital’s upcoming golf classic.

“The Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship gets tougher each year,” said the South African. “This event has one of the strongest fields outside of the Major championships. With three Major winners and the four most recent world number ones, you’re going to see some very special golf and the winner will fully deserve the title. Hopefully I can continue my form and that winner will be me.”

It won’t be an easy task though as Schwartzel will be up against Rory McIlroy (US Open champion), Darren Clarke (British Open championship) and the current world number one, Luke Donald, as well as former world number ones Lee Westwood, Tiger Woods
and Martin Kaymer, the reigning Abu Dhabi champion.

Despite this, the young South African remains in a bullish mood.

“Last year was my best year ever,” he said. “There was nothing to complain about, no negatives. It was a year of good and consistent performances. The biggest challenge will be to improve on this in the New Year and winning in Abu Dhabi would be a great way to start!”