[Golf Topic] 'Generous' Popov: "Major Tournament Ban Is a Fair Decision"

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ○…"I think it is a fair decision."

This is what Sophia Popov (Germany, photo), the first major winner of the U.S. Women's Professional Golf (LPGA) Tour AIG Women's Open, said. In an interview with the U.S. Golf Channel on the 27th (Korean time), she said, "It is natural to participate in the next tournament when you win a major, so it is disappointing for me," but she understood that "this year's situation is different from usual." She added, "All the major tournaments have been postponed, and everyone is having a hard time," and "It is a fair decision for all other players."

Despite winning the AIG Women's Open, she will not participate in the ANA Inspiration held in September. The ANA Inspiration, originally scheduled for March, was postponed to September due to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), and the participating players were confirmed in March. Popov said, "People say it is ridiculous that I cannot participate in the ANA Inspiration, but that is a fact," and added, "I think of it as taking a week off thanks to this," and "It's okay even if I can't play."

She explained, "Rather than being frustrated about missing the major, I was busier enjoying the joy of my first-ever thrilling victory." She also revealed a congratulatory message she received from Katrina Matthews (Scotland), captain of the Solheim Cup European team. Popov has begun preparations to participate in the 2021 Solheim Cup, a women's golf competition between the U.S. and Europe. She plans to go through the membership registration process for the Ladies European Tour (LET) to qualify. The tournament will be held next September in Toledo, Ohio, USA.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.