MyKhel Exclusive Interview: Playing on PGA Tour often helping Europeans pose stiff challenge in Ryder Cup - Joakim Haeggman

Add as a preferred source on Google

Fresh off his victory at the inaugural HSBC India Legends Championship, Swedish golf legend Joakim Haeggman, in an exclusive interview with MyKhel, reflected on his recent triumph in Greater Noida, delving into his experiences in India, his thoughts on the evolution of the Ryder Cup, the impact of LIV Golf, and the future of the sport.

With the warmth and hospitality of Indian golf icon Jeev Milkha Singh as his host, Haeggman shares personal insights into his time in India, the challenges and changes in global golf, and his enduring passion for the game at 54 years old. Here are the excerpts:

On the India Experience and Jeev Milkha Singh as a Host

Reflecting on his time in India, Haeggman expressed his admiration for the hospitality shown by Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh.

"Jeev has been a great host. He organized a few things for us in the evenings, and when we arrived here, I was a bit wary of the food because it's known to be spicy. And while I love spicy food, it's not always the best mix for the stomach, especially before a big tournament," Haeggman shared with a laugh.

"But I must say, not a single person had any problems, and it has been fantastic. I'm planning to enjoy some great Indian food tonight, wash it down with a couple of Cokes, and catch some sleep on the plane home."

Haeggman's relationship with Singh is one of mutual respect, forged over decades in the sport. "Jeev has been a legend for maybe 30 years, 25 years now, on the main tour. He came over to Europe, played, and was successful there. He won golf tournaments on the main tour. I knew he was dangerous today. Looking back, he had some chances but didn't capitalize on them, which allowed me to play a bit safer. As long as he wasn't making birdies, pars were good for me."

On the Evolution of the Ryder Cup:

The conversation naturally drifted to the Ryder Cup, a competition Haeggman knows well, having been the first Swede to participate back in 1993. He noted how the dynamics between Europe and the U.S. teams have shifted over the years.

"The equation has changed. Europe is now pushing back against the U.S. more often, and they are challenging them more than they used to. One of the reasons is that many Europeans are now playing in America. They know the U.S. players better, they're more familiar with each other's games, which wasn't the case 20 years ago."

He elaborated, "Back then, we didn't play as much with the likes of David Love III and others. Our tours were different, our courses were different. But now, our superstars play in America, so they know the competition well. That familiarity has leveled the playing field."

On LIV Golf's Impact on the Sport:

When asked about LIV Golf, Haeggman expressed his disappointment with the disruption it has caused in the golfing world. "It's really sad for golf in general because, in the end, golf is the loser. You watch the PGA Tour now, and you miss some of the top players. There aren't enough tournaments where the best players compete against each other. It's not like it used to be when anyone in the European Tour could beat anyone else."

Haeggman also empathized with players who chose to join LIV, particularly those at the tail end of their careers. "I can understand why some guys, especially those 40 and older, took the money. But it's unfortunate because it's fragmented the sport."

On the Importance of an India Leg for the Legends Tour:

Haeggman praised the inclusion of an India leg in the Legends Tour, emphasizing its significance for the sport's growth in the country. "HSBC, as a sponsor, and the whole event have been immensely positive. With Jeev and Jyoti [Randhawa] playing on the Legends Tour, you're inspiring an entire generation of Indians to compete on this stage someday. It's been a great experience, and I think it's an essential step for the sport's development in India."

On His Longevity in Golf:

At 54, Haeggman's competitive spirit remains undiminished , and he attributes his longevity in the sport to a rigorous fitness regimen. "I hit the gym five or six days a week, every week, to keep myself in decent shape. You can't afford to lose your strength in this game. You need that bit of muscle left to hit the ball well. For me, it's been no problem so far."

In the end, Haeggman also expressed his desire to return to India, having thoroughly enjoyed his time both on and off the course. "The experience in India has been fantastic, and I will be back," he said with a smile, clearly savouring his victory and the memories made along the way