World Number 17 Francesco Molinari has confirmed he will defend his title in the Italian Open - the fifth Rolex Series event of the season on the European Tour’s Race to Dubai – at Golf Club Milano from October 12-15.
The home favourite held his nerve in a final-day battle with 2016 Masters Champion Danny Willett to claim a historic victory last year, recording a closing round of 65 to sign for 22 under to beat Willett by one shot, becoming the first Italian to win his national Open twice since the event became part of the European Tour in 1972.
The 34 year old, who is currently sixth in the Race to Dubai Rankings presented by Rolex, has carried that impressive form into this season finishing runner up at the inaugural Rolex Series event - the BMW PGA Championship - and most recently tied second at the US PGA Championship for his best result in a Major.
“It was very special, even more than when I first won in 2006,”said the four-time European Tour winner about his victory last year. “I think it was the way as well, with it being so tight the last few holes, it could have gone either way very easily, and I think everyone was a little bit on edge and there was a big relief from everyone when I made the last putt.”
In its 74thyear, the Italian Open returns to Golf Club Milano for the ninth time, entering an exciting new era as one of the eight tournaments which form the prestigious Rolex Series - the premium category of tournaments on the European Tour’s international schedule, all with a minimum prize fund of US$7million.
With the prize fund more than doubling from last year’s €3million, Molinari is expecting a strong field and is looking forward to playing in front of his home crowd, with fans permitted free entry to Golf Club Milano to see the world’s best golfers in action.
“It’s going to be on the same course now which is going to be probably even more special. It is a bigger event than last year so hopefully the field will reflect that and it should be a great, fun week.
“Playing in Milan we are going to get great crowds like we did last year, and hopefully I will be to play some good golf and defend my title.”
Having represented Europe twice in victorious Ryder Cup teams in 2010 and 2012, the Turin born star also spoke of his excitement for Italy to host The Ryder Cup in 2022.
“It’s certainly great for golf in Italy and to have a Ryder Cup in my home country is very special. We have some very talented young guys coming through the European Tour and I know our fans will turn out to see the best golfers in the world battle it out against Team USA.”
