Tom Watson just wrapped up his first Dubai Desert Classic by closing with a 68 to tie for eighth. That’s better than European Tour stars like Paul Casey, Ross Fisher and Robert Karlsson.
How does he continue to stay so competitive on the world stage at the age of 60?
There is a scientific reason. Two years ago, Watson was unable to sleep because of degenerative hip pain. After the Champions Tour season in 2008, Watson received total hip replacement. Now, he has much more mobility in his swing. Sure, he won’t win any long drive titles but most golf courses have not outgrown his length and his classic, timeless swing.
More importantly, there is a mental reason he is still a powerful force. That is, the fuel that powers his competitive engine is now on 200 octane! I talked to Watson last week and he said his loss at Turnberry still eats at his gut a bit but it reminded him that he can still win. Tom reminded us of that with his season opening win on the Champions Tour.
With his great showing in Dubai, Tom was injected with yet another shot of confidence which may mean more magic when the world’s best gather at St. Andrews in July.
