‘Good to be back’
Thursday, 1 July 2010
Rathmore golfer Graeme McDowell, US Open champion 2010.
NEW US Open champion Graeme McDowell fought back the tears on Wednesday night as he paid tribute to all those who had helped him in the early part of his career. The 30-year-old said it was great to be back at Rathmore Golf Club during an emotional homecoming following his historic win at Pebble Beach just three days before.
In front of adoring family and friends and the world's media, the Portrush man admitted it had been a 'whirlwind' three days and that the enormity of his achievement hadn't sunk in yet.
It was a similar story for Graeme's dad Kenny and his manager, Conor Ridge, of Dublin-based Horizon Sports Management, both of whom had enjoyed Graeme's win in California.
But amid all the back-slapping and congratulatory talk it became apparent that golf's newest superstar is not content to win just the one major and he already has the British Open at St. Andrews in July in his sights.
“The win at the Wales Open felt very different," he told reporters, reflecting on his win at Celtic Manor two weeks before his triumph in the States. "Even then it felt like a springboard for big things this summer.
“I always dreamt big. You've got to work hard and practice hard and I always dreamt of winning major championships. Did I ever think it would happen? I dunno.
“It's been a long journey, a tough journey at times, but I've had good people around me like my family and friends and the people at this golf club. They've treated me unbelievably since I was a young man and it's great to be back.
“I'll enjoy this win and use it to inspire and motivate me further," he added.
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