The conclusion of the European Tour’s flagship event commences on Thursday with the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. Englishman Tyrrell Hatton will defend his title after claiming his first PGA Championship.
Hatton, came through a thrilling final round tussle with Victor Perez to claim a four stroke victory. On the final day the Englishman posted a five under par 67 to finish on 19 under par.
Chance for European players to impress
An added incentive for all the European players who will be at Wentworth will be a chance to impress Padraig Harrington. The European Ryder Cup captain will name the players who will complete Europe’s Ryder Cup team after the event.
It is looking likely that the Irishman will name both Sergio Garcia and Ian Poulter as wild card picks. With the possibility of one or two surprise names announced.
Plenty of British stars on show
Among the other British interest on show will be 2018 Ryder Cup stars Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose. Also taking part are the current leader of the 2020 Race to Dubai Champion Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter.
There will be much focus on Hatton. After a promising start to the season he has since struggled. Bernd Wiesberger, after his disappointment in the European Masters after a double bogey at the last hole cost him victory.
Sweden’s Alex Noren is showing his best form again and enjoys playing at Wentworth. Viktor Hovland, who finished fifth in the Tour Championship with a 65 is expected to go well.
Improving Shane Lowry looking to shine
Another player who has shown improved form in the past few months is Shane Lowry. The Irishman’s record around Wentworth is impressive reading, boasting a top 15 finish in eight of his ten appearances.
Henrik Stenson finished fourth in the Czech Masters, followed up by a third place finish at the European Masters.
The Molinari’s look to be the pick of the Italians with Francesco’s brother Edoardo could well feature in the shake-up. Edoardo has been hitting the ball superbly recently and recently finished fifth in the Italian Open.
What will be certain is the crowds who will flock to Wentworth will enjoy another four rounds of magnificent golf, played at an exquisite venue.