Tiger Woods aura still solid in Asia

KUALA LUMPUR - Agence France-Presse

Tiger Woods’ presence creates a huge buzz at the Malaysian event. AFP photo

Top Asian golfers are hoping to seize their chance to upstage Tiger Woods in Malaysia this week, but first they’ll have to overcome their awe of the American great.

Ahead of the $6.1 million event in Kuala Lumpur, India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar admitted he found it a little unsettling when the 14-time Major winner suddenly appeared during a practice round.

“He was standing right behind the tee box waiting for me to clear it,” Bhullar said.

“I don’t know if I should say yes or no, but I think a bit,” added Bhullar, when asked if he was intimidated by Woods.

“Suddenly you see Tiger Woods standing right behind your tee box, obviously, it’s kind of intimidating. But everybody’s at the same level, and at this tournament, everybody wants to win this tournament.
“Woods is a legend, and a living legend. What he has done, no one else has done in this generation. I think all of Asia is getting excited to see him this week.”

Korean-American David Lipsky, who has won the Cambodian Classic in his rookie year on the Asian Tour, said playing alongside Woods realized a dream he’d had for many years.

“He’s an idol of mine growing up. I’m from Southern California as well as Tiger, so growing up, watching golf, he’s been a hero of mine,” he said. “It’s crazy. It’s a dream come true to be playing in the same event as him.”