Sorenstam sets sights on historic four-timer

Defending champion Annika Sorenstam begins her quest for the Grand Slam – a clean sweep of the four majors for women – at the Kraft Nabisco Championship in California tonight.

While admitting she was “lightly raced” this season, the world number one was in confident mood on the eve of her bid to become the first four-time winner of this event.

“I’m excited about the days ahead,” she said. “I’ve only played three tournaments this year, but I feel ready.

“The course is in as good a shape as I’ve ever seen it. The rough is thick and the greens are faster and firmer. The key will be ball-striking and the short game – just how it should be for a major.”

Sorenstam opened the season by helping Sweden win the Women’s World Cup in South Africa, and then successfully defended the Mastercard Classic in Mexico last month for the 67th win of her LPGA career.

It was two years ago that Sorenstam first announced her Grand Slam goal. On that occasion, she fell at the first hurdle. Last year, she won the first two legs, adding the LPGA Championship to her victory in this tournament.

“As you get older, it does get tougher. Especially all the travel,” admitted the 35-year-old.

“But I still love the competition. The adrenaline will be flowing a little more, but I’ve learned to control the nerves and try and make something big out of it.”

While 19-year-old Paula Creamer finished second to Sorenstam on the LPGA Tour last year, and 16-year-old Michelle Wie and 17-year-old Morgan Pressel could each one day become the world’s top player, Sorenstam admits it is self-motivation that remains the driving force.

“It’s great for women’s golf that all the young players are coming through,” said the nine-time major winner.

“But whether it’s Paula Creamer or (45-year-old) Juli Inkster, I just want to beat them all.”

With seven British players in the field, highest hopes rest on the shoulders of Scot Catriona Matthew.

She finished fourth in the Safeway International two weeks ago, and has already had three top 10s in this Championship.

“I love the course and always feel comfortable here,” she said. “I’ve been playing well all season and I really do think I should do well this week.”