Senden happy to be back at Royal Sydney

John Senden says returning to Royal Sydney where he reigned a decade ago gives him the confidence he can contend for a second Australian Open title this week.

John Senden is drawing on the fond memories of his Royal Sydney success a decade ago as he chases a second Australian Open crown this week.

Senden believes Royal Sydney's short, tight layout has set the scene for one of the most open championships in years.

The 2006 winner admits it isn't just marquee stars Jordan Spieth and Adam Scott that their challengers need to look out for.

"There's definitely a quality field here this week; 'Spiethy' and Adam Scott, Greg Chalmers and Rod Pampling," said Senden.

"It's a strategic course and it's not a long course, which brings more golfers into play, unlike The Australian Golf Club where it's a long and testing course.

"If you place yourself around here, you can still score well. You feel like you don't have to hit it 300 yards because it's a narrow, short Open golf course and brings a lot of different players into the game."

Spieth, the winner at The Australian two years ago with a 13-under-par 72-hole total, is predicting around 12-under to be enough to win come Sunday.

Senden, 45, birdied the last two holes to beat then-reigning US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy by a shot at Royal Sydney in 2006.

"(Being here) brings back great memories from 2006; there are a lot of good feels around here," Senden said.

"You're always keen to play because it's your national open and, knowing the good memories. Hopefully it becomes a good week."

Regarded as one of the world's best ball strikers, the two-time US PGA Tour winner says precise iron shots will be crucial to contending on the boldly undulating greens.

"You notice at this course the greens are really undulating and that is a true test," he said.

"Especially with strong winds at this time of year, it becomes a great challenge around the greens.

"There's not a flat spot on these greens which is a challenge for every golfer so doing well on and around the greens should put you in good stead for a winning spot."


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Source: AAP



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