Dubai: In 2006, Michelle Wie was named in a Time magazine article as "one of 100 people who shape our world". She was 17 then, just a year into her professional debut, a move that was accompanied by an enormous amount of hype and endorsements. She was touted as the Tiger Woods of women's golf but it wasn't until a year back that she actually won something big on the golf course, the Lorena Ochoa Invitational, an event from which she had to withdraw last week due to a back injury.
Speaking exclusively to XPRESS ahead of the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, the most sought-after name in women's golf revealed that she is raring to be back in Dubai following her injury scare.
"It was unfortunate that I had to withdraw from my first title defence. It was a difficult decision but I knew pushing through the pain would not be a wise decision for my long-term health. Thankfully, my diagnosis is not serious, meaning nothing is broken or torn. I will take some time off to help my back heal and hopefully come back stronger than ever for Dubai."
Wie had a great run in Dubai last year finishing three strokes behind the winner and says she can't wait to be back.
"Last year was my first trip to the Middle East and it was fantastic. I really enjoyed the city of Dubai and everything it has to offer - from the shopping to the amazing hotels. I was completely impressed. I am looking forward to returning to the Majlis golf course and having another opportunity to win the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters," she said.
Getting better
Despite her obvious talent and immense marketing appeal, the stunning Korean-American hasn't however had it her own way. But she believes things are finally falling into place.
"I was frustrated with my game earlier in the year and it was nice to finally have things come together all at once. Winning the CN Canadian Women's Open and playing well in Arkansas has been the highlight of my 2010 season for sure," she said.
So, is winning a major next on her wish list?
"Playing well at the majors is something I always want to accomplish but I am happy with my career progression and look forward to continuing to play well and succeed. I believe good things will come in time if I put in the work and continue down my current path," said the 21-year-old.
Incidentally, Wie has competed against men in 14 tournaments so far, but says she doesn't see herself playing against them any more. "My focus is being the best player on the LPGA Tour that I can be. Women's golf is seeing so many talented players rising to the top right now and it's fun to be a part of that competition. My main goal each and every year is to be the best player that I can be and to play well against the best in the world. I'm enjoying doing that on the LPGA Tour," the world No 10 said.
