Justin Rose looks to put back problems behind him at Hong Kong Open
Wednesday 7 December 2016 12:08, UK
Justin Rose is hopeful of shrugging off his back problems in time for his title defence at this week’s UBS Hong Kong Open.
The Olympic champion has battled back issues since he sustained a herniated disc during May's Players Championship, which ruled him out of action for a month ahead of a busy summer.
Rose then decided to take an extended break from competitive action after featuring in Europe's Ryder Cup defeat at Hazeltine, but was forced to withdraw after the first round of his comeback at last week's Hero World Challenge.
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The Englishman believes he is making "good progress" in his recovery, as he looks to follow on from last year's narrow victory over Lucas Bjerregaard.
"I've done everything I can the last few days to do everything I can to defend here," Rose told a pre-tournament press conference. "I'm making good progress.
"I've been working hard to be honest with you for seven weeks. I've been really excited about what I've seen in my game in practice.
"Last week was a mishap for sure but I feel good about things in general. I feel optimistic about next year and certainly I feel motivated and I feel hungry.
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"It's not ideal to come in here slightly undercooked preparation-wise, but I'm hoping that the fact that I've been diligent and careful the last few days is going to allow me to be competitive for all four days."
Rose tees off alongside Thongchai Jaidee and Scott Hend for the opening two rounds, while Patrick Reed, Masters champion Danny Willett and Ian Poulter - who won the tournament in 2010 - are also in the field.
"My confidence level is always there," Poulter said. "I'm as ambitious as I've always been and I always look to perform well.
"I am really looking forward to this week because we are back at a golf course that I love and that gives me confidence.
"If I can make a few more putts this week I think I have a great chance to pick that trophy up on Sunday."
Watch the UBS Hong Kong Open throughout the week from December 8-11 live on Sky Sports 4 - your home of golf. Live coverage begins on Thursday from 6am.
