Davies determined to continue recovery
A month ago, Laura Davies’ career had reached an all-time low.
But Britain’s best-known woman golfer goes into this week’s second major of the season – the McDonald’s LPGA Championship in Maryland – in rejuvenated mood after a run of high finishes.
A two-time winner of the title, Davies hit crisis point when she missed the first seven cuts on the LPGA Tour this year.
However, a couple of second places in the Swiss and French Opens followed by a top-25 placing in last week’s ShopRite Classic in New Jersey suggest she has turned the corner.
“I was really down when I only made one cut in eight weeks, but going back to Europe worked wonders,” admitted the 42-year-old.
“I wanted to go back and try and earn some Solheim Cup points, and two second places was such a confidence booster.
“I came back to America and continued to play well, so I’m hoping for another good week here.”
Davies has good memories of the Bulle Rock course having finished tied for third last year behind Annika Sorenstam and teenage sensation Michelle Wie.
“It suited my game last time so I hope it proves the same this week,” she added.
Sorenstam is chasing a record fourth straight LPGA title, while Wie is also full of confidence after a brave effort to try and qualify for next week’s men’s US Open at Winged Foot.
She shot 68-75 in Monday’s final qualifying, missing the mark by five shots.
“It was a tremendous experience,” admitted Wie. “I was a little stiff this mooring, but I’ll be fine. I don’t really feel tired, just sore, and I’m so excited to be back here and looking forward to a great week.
“Playing yesterday was a lot of fun and now I’m even more motivated to do well this week. I think it helped me playing the 36 holes in one day.
“Now playing 18 holes over four days will be a breeze. The Open qualifying course was wet and playing very long so this week might seem a little easier.”
