Sung Hyun Park put on a final-round performance for the ages at the 2019 HSBC Women’s World Championship. Sitting in eighth after 54 holes, Park pulled off a Sunday 64 to finish ahead of the competition by two strokes and claim her sixth-career victory on the LPGA Tour. It’s a memory this week’s defending champion is proud of when she reflects on her tenure on Tour.
“I remember not losing focus until the end and trying to make a lot of birdies. I didn't know that I was in contention then during the final round, but I was really focused,” said Park. “I know I haven't been playing well the last couple tournaments but recalling these memories I think gives me a lot of confidence going into this week.”
The former World No. 1 said her confidence has been lacking as of late. Last season, Park was rehabilitating through a shoulder injury sustained at the end of the 2019 and used the time off due to the COVID-19 pandemic to adequately rest. Though Park said she is fully recovered and doesn’t feel any more pain – she has been a ubiquitous presence at Orange Tree Golf Club in Orlando, Fla. where she lives - the consequences of the injury still linger.
“Because of my injury, my swing has changed a lot, and I believe that my swing needs to be improved. I think that solid shots lead to good performance. So, I'm really trying to find some good shots, both through practice and during tournaments,” said Park, who has only made one cut through five events in 2021.
Park said that even though she’s been overcoming obstacles mentally and physically over the past year, the major champion is ready to prove she belongs back at the top of leaderboards, especially as a place as familiar as Sentosa Golf Club.
“I did start playing here as a rookie, and it's a style of golf course that I really like. It's a lot of fun and I noticed that some holes have been changed on the front nine, and it seems like it's been maintained really well,” said Park. “It seems like it's some really good condition. I personally really like this Sentosa golf course, and as long as I play well, I think I'll be able to score lower this week.”
Park takes on the first round on Thursday at 9:37 a.m. off No. 1 with World No. 1 Jin Young Ko and No. 6 Danielle Kang.
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