DUBAI –- Henrik Stenson vowed to pursue his golfing career with renewed vigour and enthusiasm after tying the nuptial knot with his long-time companion Emma Lofgren at a simple ceremony in Dubai on Saturday.
"Everything''s been good. Nothing''s changed (after the marriage). It''s still the same relationship," said the Dubai-based golfer who met Emma almost 10 years ago at a golf course in Sweden and "hit it off on the very first meeting itself."
Henrik Stenson with his wife Emma at the Emirates Golf Club
"Without a doubt, being with the right person makes things better. It makes life better, much easier, and you look forward to doing things with renewed enthusiasm," said Stenson who will be spending a quiet honeymoon in Dubai.
"Any sportsman will tell you it's very important to find a partner who can console him and someone he can talk to after a day's work," said the golf in DUBAI ambassador who, after a short break, will fly to Bangkok to compete in the Europe vs Asia Golf Championship for the Royal Trophy to be held at the Amata Spring Country Club from January 12 to 14.
The championship brings together some of the very best golfers from Europe and Asia to compete in a fantastic series of 16 matches of foursomes, four-ball and singles.
The 'Desert Swing' will be the next on the itinerary of Stenson which will see the Ryder Cup star travel to Abu Dhabi and Doha before coming to Dubai where he finished a joint seventh.
In Dubai, Stenson -- currently ranked 12th in the world -- will join a star-studded line-up, headed by world number one Tiger Woods, when the Dubai Desert Classic gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club from February 1-4.
"Dubai is a great place to be based. I like the weather, I like the facilities and I like the Majlis course because it has a very good variation. You don't get tired of playing on the course. You can play over and over again –-- and still it's fun to play," said number one player of Sweden.
"I am looking forward to playing in the Dubai Desert Classic and a victory here would be an ideal present for my wife and my many friends. I know it won't be easy, but then I have to trust in my swing and abilities to play at this highest level," said the 31-year-old who had the distinction of sinking the winning putt in Europe's resounding Ryder Cup victory over the US.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman of golf in DUBAI, congratulated Stenson on his marriage and lauded his commitment to the game.
"He is totally focused on golf. Nothing can distract him when he is on the job. I believe it is his hard work and total dedication that has turned out to be the formula for his success," he said.
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