London: English golfer Lee Westwood confirmed his year-end No 1 ranking on December 5 with an eight-shot win at the Nedbank Golf Challenge in Sun City, South Africa. Westwood talks about life outside golf and what makes him tick.
What is the highlight of your career?
Becoming world No 1. I was in Sainsbury's when the call came, buying rubber gloves and mashed potatoes.
... And the worst moment?
Nine years ago, when I fell outside the world's top 200 and was close to my wit's end, turning up at tournaments when I didn't really want to play.
Who is your sporting hero?
I had two — Sebastian Coe and Diego Maradona. Coe for his kick round the final bend and I still thought Maradona was a genius even after the Hand of God.
What would you be if you weren't a sportsman?
No idea. That might be why I've opened my own school (Lee Westwood Golf School in Cheshire).
If your house was burning down, what one possession would you save?
My ping golf clubs. They paid for the house in the first place.
What's the best advice you've been given?
Work hard and play hard. That came from my grandad, who instilled in me the need to work hard but also to make the time to enjoy whatever I achieved.
Last book you read?
I can't remember. These days I'm too busy reading the Daily Mail from cover to cover. I finish the most difficult Sudoku and hardest crossword nearly every day.
Favourite pre-match meal?
Maybe pasta, or something with rice.
Your favourite holiday destination?
It's hard to beat Sandy Lane in Barbados.
What's the most expensive thing you've bought?
My challenger jet.
Tell us a secret...
My grandparents ran a dance school and my dad made me go. I am highly commended in the Boston Two-Step and the Lilac Waltz. Strictly here I come!
