Singapore:
Nicknamed 'Chip-putt-sia' for his fine short game, Indian golfer SSP Chowrasia says he is struggling with what was once his strong point but remains confident of rediscovering the lost touch for a title assault at next week's Handa Singapore Classic here.
Chowrasia, the son of a greenkeeper, produced a career breakthrough two years ago when he won the Indian Masters.
The 32-year-old said his famous short game, which led him to the surprise title triumph two years ago, is not working for him at least for the time being.
"I've put in a lot of work in the last few years and changed my swing a bit. I've improved on my ball striking but my putting is not so good now. I've been missing a few short putts. My strong point is gone. I hope it'll come back soon," said Chowrasia.
Similar is the story of C Muniyappa, who rose stunningly by claiming a popular victory at the Hero Honda Indian Open last year. It marked a turning point in his career where he won USD 223,269 on the Asian Tour last season but struggling ever since, he too is hoping make a mark at next week's event.
As a seven-year-old he earned one rupee working as a caddie at the Karnataka Golf Association golf course and learned his golf swing by observing club members.
Muniyappa revealed that the pressure has been piling since his surprise victory in Delhi last year.
"After winning the Indian Open, I planned on buying a house but until now, I haven't managed to buy it yet. That has distracted me from golf but I hope a few good finishes or a victory will change that," said last season's Rookie of the Year.
Other top Asian Tour stars competing at the Orchid Country Club include Marcus Fraser of Australia, currently ranked second on the Order of Merit, and local star Lam Chih Bing.
Bangladesh's Siddikur Rehman will also headline the Asian Tour's newest USD 400,000 tournament alongside Asian Tour number one Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand at the Orchid Country Club from September 9-12.