Dubai: Henrik Stenson has never before defended a title in his professional career, but he has a good chance of setting the record straight as he chases South African Ernie Els down the final stretch on Sunday.
"There is still a long way to go, but I have never ever defended a title before. So the idea will be to go out there and shoot a solid round and hope it counts at the end of the day," Stenson said after the third round at the Emirates Golf Club.
Stenson was in a similar position in 2007, sitting two shots behind the leader. This year, he is in a much better position after yesterday's third round of 68 for a 10-under - just one shot adrift of Els.
"So far I am in with a good chance. Of course, I would have always loved to be one shot clear than one shot behind," Stenson said.
The Dubai-based Swede has had a solid start to the season, finishing tied-second in Abu Dhabi followed by a second spot in Qatar last week.
"Ernie is looking to walk away with the title the way he's been playing. But I will try and keep up with him and put some pressure on and give myself a fair chance at the title," Stenson said.
