Halfway around the world, they are going at it again.
Despite a 78-man field from 23 countries at this World Golf Championship - the strongest field ever assembled in Asia - Woods and Mickelson remain the top attractions.
“I’m excited that Tiger and I are able to compete in the same event here in China,’’ Mickelson said yesterday on the eve of the HSBC Champions at Sheshan International Golf Club. “I think that it will provide some exposure to the game of golf throughout the country, and I’m hopeful that we compete head-to-head over the weekend, and are both in contention.’’
The HSBC Champions might be the appropriate way to celebrate a phenomenal year for golf in Asia.
Y.E. Yang of South Korea made history at the PGA Championship, becoming the first Asian-born golfer to win a major and the first player to win a major in which Woods had the lead going into the final round.
Only a week ago, the first Asian Amateur Championship was staged at Mission Hills Golf Club in China, with the winner awarded a spot in the Masters next year and an exemption into the final stage of British Open qualifying.
The year ends with the first World Golf Championship in Asia that counts toward the world ranking.
“I’m looking forward to it. I think everyone is,’’ Woods said. “Having this now become a World Golf Championship, I think everyone is very excited about what this tournament means in the scope of things, not just here in China but in all of Asia. As a player, we are looking forward to playing this golf course against such a great field.’’
The field includes defending champion Sergio Garcia, three-time major winner Padraig Harrington, British Open champion Stewart Cink, and Lee Westwood, who is leading the Race to Dubai on the European Tour.
