Now the world fears us, says Jeev

Jeev Milkha Singh credits patience and hard work for his recent successes, writes Saurabh Duggal.

Victory at the Volvo Masters has come as a pleasant surprise for Jeev Milkha Singh. Terming his victory in Sotogrande an achievement not just for him but also for Indian golf, Jeev said he had no words to express the winning feeling.

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“I am amazed at this victory and have no words to express my feelings. It’s like a dream come true,” he told HT over phone from Spain, just before boarding his flight to Japan, where he will continue with his golf.

It has been a unique Volvo double for him — he won the Volvo China Open in April, and he admitted that he did not expect this to happen in such a short period.

“Winning the Volvo China Open in April was like capturing the world for me,” Jeev said. “At that time, I never thought that I would be adding an even bigger title to my kitty so soon.”

A change in attitude and approach towards the game have paid off rich dividends for Jeev. “Earlier, I used to put myself under pressure by thinking about the end result,” he said.

“Now, I take every event as it comes. This has reduced the pressure and I have become more relaxed.”

About the golf he played in Spain, Jeev said, “I played my normal game and didn’t put pressure on myself. Winning was not my motive. I walked on to the course determined to give my best and enjoy the game. And I ended up winning the tournament.”

Jeev returns to the Japanese Tour now and after a week will compete against the likes of Tiger Woods in the HSBC Open in Shanghai. “I want to maintain the momentum in Japan,” he said. “So if I face Tiger, I can give my best.”

Jeev added, “Earlier, Europeans used to take us casually. Now, I am happy they will be wary of us and will keep in mind that Indian golfers have the capacity to topple anybody in the world.”

His message for Indian youngsters keen on golf is “give your best, keep working hard and stay calm”.

Jeev’s father, renowned athlete Milkha Singh, was elated at his son’s victory. “He has carried on the family tradition of striking gold in major events,” Milkha Singh senior said.'