Lim Sung-jae's Strong Performance at Honda Classic: "High Trajectory, Pinpoint Iron Shot Power"

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "High trajectory, pinpoint iron shots."

Im Sung-jae (24, photo) is particularly strong at the Honda Classic on the U.S. PGA Tour (total prize money $8 million), known as a tough course. On the 24th (Korean time), at a press conference held one day before the tournament opening at PGA National Golf Club (par 70, 7,125 yards) in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, he said, "Florida greens are hard and fast," and introduced, "My iron shots have a high trajectory and a lot of spin, so they roll relatively less after landing on the green."

Im Sung-jae actually won his first PGA Tour title in 2020 and finished tied for 8th last year. This is why PGA Tour.com ranked him as the 'No. 1 favorite to win.' PGA National ranked as the fifth most difficult course last year with an average score of 71.10. The final decisive stretch, holes 15 to 17, known as the 'Bear Trap,' is representative. Jack Nicklaus (USA) remodeled it in 2001, modeling it after the 'Amen Corner' holes 11 to 13 at Augusta National.

At the teeing ground of the 15th hole (par 3), there is a large bear statue along with a sign that reads, "You have now entered the Bear Trap." Among the three holes, two are par 3s, which means 'iron shots' are absolutely crucial. This is because of the lake. Since 2007, 75% of players who have participated have lost at least one ball in the water. Gavin Coles (USA) even hit the water four times on the 15th hole on the third day in 2007, resulting in an 8-over-par 11, an 'Octuple Bogey.'

It is interesting that Im Sung-jae made 'stepping stone birdies' on holes 15 and 17 when he won in 2020. He said, "The two Bear Trap birdies were the driving force for my victory," and added confidence, "It feels more difficult than two years ago, but I don't think I need to be conscious of it." He also said, "Last July, I corrected my backswing so that my arms and body rotate as one motion, and the results have been very good," and expressed his fighting spirit, "I will challenge for the win in this tournament as well."

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