An excited for Bridgestone debut

An Byeong-hun is looking forward to pitting himself against the world’s best during this week’s WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.

The South Korean secured his place in the event by winning his first European Tour title at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth back in May, but he has struggled for form since that success and missed the cut at both the US Open and Open Championship.

The 23-year-old’s best showing since his victory in Surrey was a tie for 21st at the Open de France in July but, despite his poor form, the world number 58 remains excited at the prospect of competing at Firestone Country Club.

“In many ways it is as big as the majors, because there is no other qualifying to get in other than being in the top 50 or winning a big event,” he said. “I’m looking forward to it. It’s a good course, and a good field, so I can’t wait to play.”

The Florida-based player admitted that he was taking no chances ahead of the tournament and has arrived early to prepare for the event in Ohio.

“This tournament has been here forever but I’m the rookie, so I’m here early,” he added. “I always play Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and I’m trying to keep to my plans.

“There aren’t many guys here yet, but hopefully I will get to play with someone experienced and learn a few things from them.”

The youngster will also compete in next week’s PGA Championship at Whistling Straits and is hopeful that playing in such high-profile events will help him to improve as a golfer over the coming years.

He went on to say: “I still have a long way to go in my progression as a player but playing in bigger events will help with that.”

Tagged An Byeong-hun, WGC Bridgestone, WGC-Bridgestone Invitational