Tabuena eyes strong start vs tough field
The biggest prize money. The most talented field ever to set foot on local soil.
An 11-man Philippine challenge with the tip of the local spear breaking off an interview, asking for one thing:
“Keep praying for me and the other Filipinos,” was how Miguel Tabuena bid the Inquirer farewell on Tuesday night with the $2 million (roughly P116M) International Series Philippines just a day away from tip-off at Sta. Elena, a course the 31-year-old holds dear and where he hopes to nail the biggest win of his career.
Tabuena banners a lean home stand that will be up against a field headed by four major champions, with all the Filipinos carrying the label of underdogs—long shots, even—never mind if they will enjoy the backing and prayers, if Tabuena’s request is heeded, of a nation.
“Local knowledge can only take you so far,” the ever-gracious Tabuena said when asked about the advantage he has in a course he practically grew up in. “Remember, these are world-class players and they can adjust to anything really quick.”
Ex-Masters champs Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed of the United States and South African Charles Schwartzel and former British Open winner Louis Oosthuizen will be in the field, as well as other crack players from the LIV Golf League and the Asian Tour, making the 72-hole championship field the best collection of stars ever to play here.
And Tabuena is up to the challenge.
“I would like to think that I have what it takes to compete this week,” he added as he plays an international tournament at home for just the second time this year after finishing in the Top 10 of the PH Open in January at Manila Southwoods.
“There’s added pressure playing at home,” he said. “That comes with playing in front of friends, family and the fans. But I will stick to what I can control and hopefully have a good week.”
