Rafa: In all honesty 2022 has overall been a somewhat disappointing season for me golf wise, so far. I have been working on some swing changes this year, which is always a challenge to adjust to during the tournament season. However, at the start of the year, when I set my season long targets, I always put down qualifying for the top 50 on the DP World Tour Rankings and to play in the DP World Tour Championship. I have once again achieved that and currently stand 37th in the Rankings so it is not all bad news. My consistency of scoring is what I am working on.
GULF NEWS: What have been the highlights of this season?
Rafa: I started my season off at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links with a tied second finish and I contended in both the Genesis Scottish Open and the BMW PGA Championship, all Rolex Series events and tournaments with the best fields of the season.
GULF NEWS: When will you be back in Dubai?
Rafa: I will be back after this week’s Nedbank Golf Challenge in Sun City. It is always nice to be coming back home to Dubai. I will be with my family again. At the end of the season it is always good to take a break and there is no better place to rest than in Dubai. Before going to South Africa last week I practised a lot at JA The Resort, Jebel Ali. I am an Ambassador for JA Resorts and Hotels and it is always a treat to visit the property and thanks as usual to Director of Sports, Stuart McMurdo and his team for always looking after me so well. It is also good to see more and more DP World Tour pros and their coaches using the facility.
GULF NEWS: What are your off-season plans?
Rafa: I have some family commitments coming up so will be popping out of Dubai. However, I am determined to be fit and tournament ready for the start of next season, which starts for me with the Desert Swing in January at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship and the Dubai Desert Classic. A fast start is so important these days on Tour and with two Rolex Series’ events to start the season with the significant prizefunds on offer and the quality of fields, it can set you up for a strong season, with all the rewards for 2023, DP World Tour Ranking Points, OWGR Points, Ryder Cup Points on offer and so much more.
GULF NEWS: We look forward to seeing you in Dubai and the UAE and good luck for next week and your winter plans.
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