Dane Thorbjorn Olesen must now come onto the European Ryder Cup selection radar after his second success in 10 months at the inaugural Thailand Classic.
Olesen, 33, stormed his way to a four-shot success, capping his final round with three birdies in succession from the 13th hole, on route to closing 66 and a 21-under-par tally.
The win, and Olesen’s 14th pro career title, should see him jump nearly 30 spots to 91st on the World Rankings while he picked-up four spots to 12th on the ‘European’ points table for the 2023 Ryder Cup and in the process to rekindle memories of being on the 2018 Versailles victory side under the leadership of fellow Dane Thomas Bjorn.
Dane Thorbjorn Olesen captures the inaugural Thailand Classic. (Photo – DP World Tour)
He said: “It’s always a goal to get back into a Ryder Cup, when you’ve tried it once you want to go back.
“I know I was a long way behind, but this is a really good start to the year. It’s time to keep going and see if we can get in that team.
“And it’s been a while since I’ve been in the top 100 in the world, it feels good. I don’t feel like I’m far away with two victories in nine months. I feel like the way I played today under pressure is something that gives me a lot of confidence going forward. Still a lot of work, but this is a big step in the right direction”.
The win continues Olesen’s fine record of converting 54-hole leads into victories, having now achieved the feat six times on the DP World Tour.
Germany’s Yannik Paul finished alone in second place on 20-under after closing his 68 with a birdie.
Joost Luiten and Alexander Knappe were then in a tie for third another two shots further back.
