McDowell: On the up
Graeme McDowell is in optimistic mood as he prepares for the USPGA Championship at Oakland Hills this week.
The Ulsterman finished 19th in the Open at Royal Birkdale last month - his second highest finish in a Major - a result that further boosted his confidence after a solid season of results.
A tie for 56th in the Bridgestone last week was a slightly disappointing return but McDowell was in no way downhearted after taking a week off.
"I've learned that my game's good enough," he said. "I've had a great few months of play, my second best finish in a major and I walked away disappointed, I simply played badly, struggled on the Saturday, struggled on the greens a little bit.
"Yet I walked away with my second best finish in a major and I learned I can compete at this level with the best players in the world at the best tournaments in the world.
"I'm really feeling my game's getting better. I hit the ball great (at Akron), I really did, coming off not really doing a whole lot last week, just resting and trying to unscramble my mind a little bit for the second half of the season."
McDowell will be seeking out members of the Ryder Cup-winning team at Oakland Hills in 2004 for tips and advice on what is likely to prove a tough end to the Major season.
"I watched the Ryder Cup but I doubt if I'll recognise much of it to be honest," he added. "I've heard the set-up is tough and I'm looking forward to it.
"I'm driving the ball well, my iron play feels good and if I can get my short game sharp. I'll see who's around the next couple of days.
"I always like to try to seek out good players and see if I can pick their brains, maybe someone who knows the course a little bit, maybe one of the Ryder Cup players from a few years ago. See if they can show me around a little bit."
