Swedish star looks to a totally different future

Dubai: Annika Sorenstam says she has no regrets about calling time on her illustrious career at the Dubai Ladies Masters.

The former World No3 says she is keen to move on and open new chapters in her life.

These include marriage, and her rapidly-expanding business empire, which will revolve around golf.

The 38-year-old is set to marry fiance Mike McGee in Orlando, Florida, in January.

Close friend and men's World No1 Tiger Woods is one of the high-profile names on her guest list.

"It's an exciting time and I am excited about starting a new chapter in my life," said Sorenstam.

She tees off in the first round of the Dubai tournament today in the hope of securing a hat-trick at the Emirates Golf Club.

"We would love to start a family and that's going to be very different, than what I'm used to.

"We have about 150 people coming for the wedding. Tiger, too, has received an invite and we'll see if he's there for it."

Sorenstam said her decision to retire was carefully thought out.

"I announced it five months ago, but I really made the decision probably a year ago.

"After I won here last year, I realised that I came back from a tough time, injury-wise, and felt very good about it. I knew that if I really wanted to, I could do it.

"I've had this in my mind for over 12 months. Over the last few weeks, I did think whether this was the right thing to do, not competing, but it's something I've done for 20 years and I realise I've been very, very lucky.

"I'm glad I've had the opportunity, but nothing has crept in and questioned my decision.

"On the contrary, I feel very content and I'm glad I did it this way. I wouldn't do it any differently."

The Swede, with 90 professional wins and over $22 million in career earnings, said she has no plans to return to the game.

"I guess time will tell. Obviously, this is the week that counts and this is the week where all of my energy is," she added.

"We'll see how things shape up in January and the rest of the year and we'll go on from there.

"I don't have any plans on if I should return, and if so, when. I'm just going to go with the flow and see how I feel. But I don't have the urge yet."