2016 Champion Jeon In-ji: "Evian is the Most Precious Tournament"... "I Will Play While Enjoying It"

Jeon In-ji is discussing hole strategy with her caddie during a practice round at the major Amundi Evian Championship. Evian-les-Bains, France=Getty Images/Multibits

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] "2016 is a tournament that will remain an unforgettable memory for me for life."

‘Flying Dumbo’ Jeon In-ji (28) shared her thoughts. At the official press conference of the fourth major of the LPGA Tour, the Amundi Evian Championship (total prize money $6.5 million), held on the 21st (Korean time) at Evian Golf Club (par 71, 6,527 yards) in Evian-les-Bains, France, she recalled, "I broke the major record for the lowest score by shooting 21 under par on the final 18th hole (par 5) in 2016," adding, "It is a tournament that has really helped my career a lot." The following is a Q&A.

- Welcome to the Amundi Evian Championship. Could you explain what it means to live on the LPGA Tour?

▶ I have wanted to play on the LPGA Tour since I was young. I have played golf dreaming of achieving a career Grand Slam if given the chance. Now, having won three majors, I am in a position to challenge for the career Grand Slam.

- Do you feel any pressure about the career Grand Slam?

▶ I feel both happy and a little pressured. I am very happy just to have this opportunity. I have resolved to ‘accept the pressure as it is and not try to avoid it.’ I want to focus on what I can do and continue moving toward my goals and dreams.

- You recently visited Korea briefly.

▶ After winning the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship last month, I went to Lancaster to participate in fundraising activities for the foundation, and then returned to Korea. I was very happy that many fans welcomed me at the airport. I had a busy schedule in Korea. I didn’t have time to party with friends but had dinner with my family. I have been busy painting because I have an exhibition coming up in December. Painting is a healing time for me.

- You won here in 2016.

▶ It is a tournament I will never forget in my life. The final hole par save putt was very tricky. I had to make that putt to break the major record for the lowest score. Fortunately, I made the putt. The pressure and feelings from that moment still remain vivid. These memories helped me a lot at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship as well. I played with the thought that I could succeed again this time. It is a tournament that remains a precious memory in my career.

- How is your current condition?

▶ Three weeks have passed very quickly. Being on the course felt different. I didn’t just come after painting; I practiced hard as well. I have a strong desire to do well. How I control myself will be important this week. I want to enjoy the process without giving it too much meaning. I want to be someone who can grow a little more this time as well.

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