Annika Nykanen Photo Credit: Maria Beautell
Getting to know 25-year-old rookie professional Annika Nykanen from Finland.
Where did you get your name?
I think my parents had some intuition that I would be a good golfer!
Where do you live?
I live in Espoo, near Helsinki. I am still at university studying mathematics and computer science. I think I’m going to take a break from my studies so that I can play.
How did you get into golf?
I was 12 years old and my father started one year before me so I went with him and then I have loved it ever since.
What are your best achievements and what was your handicap when you turned professional?
I have been in the Finnish National Team and last year we won the bronze medal in the European Team Championship. In the individual European Championship last year I was 14th, which I think is okay and I have three straight Finnish match play Championship victories in Finland. I was +2 when I turned pro.
What do you like to do in your down time?
I like to read, go to the gym, run, watch movies and especially watch sports like football and ice hockey. It’s a big thing in Finland so I like to watch it.
Do you support a team?
I support the Hensingin Jääkiekkoklubi and next year they will play in the Russian League, KHL.
What is your ambition?
My hope is to be in the top 20 to go to the Q School finals and then to the Ladies European Tour next year.
What is the strength of your game?
I think the driving is the strength of my game because I rarely miss the fairway and I have to say the putter is my favourite club because it’s the most difficult but when you have the right connection it’s the best feeling.
