The win at Gams in 2017 was your first title win on the LET Access Series. What does this victory mean for you?
This victory was the reward for hard work. My goal for the season was to win a tournament – fun and very enjoyable that I made it in May. The victory at the VP Bank Ladies Open in 2017 also means that I can be a “champion” for the rest of my life! (Laughs)
How does it feel to come back to Gams and defend the title?
Of course, I’m really looking forward to returning to Switzerland. The people are so friendly and the course in Gams suits my game. But it will also be a whole new experience to be able to defend a title. I really hope that I can fulfill all the expectations.
What are your own expectations for the tournament in Gams?
Of course, I want to successfully defend the title. Sure, in addition to good golf, it takes a bit of luck to win a tournament, but I promise I will do my best and try to follow my plan exactly as I did in 2017. Specifically, that means I’ll try to get as many fairways as possible and hopefully play some birdies on the par 5 holes.
How did you start in the 2018 season?
I prepared for the new season in Spain in the winter and made some changes in my swing. The first tournament I played in early April in southern France. I hit the ball pretty well, but I had trouble with the fast and undulating greens in France.
Do you feel ready for the VP Bank Ladies Open 2018?
Yes, I am more or less ready. However, there are still a few minor decisions regarding equipment open. I’m still not sure if I should change some clubs or stay with the proven ones. Apart from that, I’m ready to go: My putting is good and I’m striking the ball well. In preparation for the event, I play a lot on the course. This is a bit unusual for me, I usually spend a lot more time on the practice area, but now I want to develop a routine on the course as fast as possible.
What memories do you have of GC Gams-Werdenberg?
(laughs) I remember the donkeys next to hole 8 – if they’re going to be back, I’ll walk past them on each turn and say hello. Joking aside. The course is really close and always in a very good condition. The view from the course also motivates you to seriously consider moving to Switzerland.
What are your goals for the 2018 season?
The same as 2017: I want to win a tournament. And I want to continuously improve my game.
What do you like most about Switzerland?
I have the impression that everything runs smoothly in Switzerland. Everything is very well organized – so we Finns love it! Besides, the scenery is just great; wherever you go, there are always really enchanting views. And I’ll tell you a little secret now: my favorite chocolate – Lindt & Sprüngli – comes from Switzerland; From this I almost nibble daily.
Apart from golf, what else do you like?
I like to go to the gym, which benefits the game of golf. Then I listen to many audio books and like to take photographs; I post the pictures on my Instagram account.
Which athletes would you like to play a round of golf with?
With Serena Williams and the two golfers Jordan Spieth and Jack Nicklaus.
