Justin Walters has played on the European Tour since 2013 and has been runner-up twice, but never won. At 35 years old he’s at the prime age to finally secure a maiden victory, and it would help him to improve in the Race to Dubai.
The top 110 players on the final earnings list keep their playing privileges in Europe, get to contend in the Finals Series, and can tick off the season as ‘mission accomplished’.
Walters currently ranks 99th in the Race to Dubai and the next few tournaments are crucial, which makes the Porsche European Open a welcome opportunity. This year he’s earned more than in each of the past two seasons, so the consistency is there. Icing the cake is his final hurdle to make.
He currently works with Jamie Gough, a leading instructor on both the European and Sunshine Tours. Last week at the Italian Open, where Walters shared 45th place, Gough tweeted:
Boys are fired up and ready to play #ItalianOpen @jwaltersgolf @HaydnPorteous @EuropeanTour pic.twitter.com/5pvStr4NDw
— Jamie Gough (@jamiegoughgolf) September 14, 2016
Bad Griesbach’s Beckenbauer course, named after the World Cup winning footballer Franz, will host this week’s €2-million tournament. The world’s best players will tee up at the PGA Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club this week, which further opens the door in Germany.
Walters started a family last year and has become a grounded player with specific goals. Top of his wish list is a victory on the European Tour, but it will take classy golf to beat favourites Martin Kaymer and Thongchai Jaidee.
The South African could produce the goods, but needs to bring his A-game.