Tereza Koželuhová’s large entourage was the best performance of the Czech players. Four shots under par and a share of twelfth place put a deservedly satisfied smile on the twenty-four-year-old golfer’s face. Her well-being may have been greatly helped by the fact that this year, the native of Pilsen played the opening round on the Beroun course for the first time as a truly home player. In the spring, she chose the local resort as her home base; she lives directly on the premises.
You are undoubtedly satisfied with the result and probably with today’s outcome. How would you assess the opening round?
“I played very well, although the opening could have been better again as the two irons into the green were not ideal. But from three onwards, it started to click; I played well, much better than I have ever played in this tournament. And I dropped two six or seven-meter putts there, so I feel satisfied.”
Although the approaching storm did not eventually arrive, play was suspended for a time. It seemed not to upset you.
“It didn’t seem like it, but I lost my rhythm. I still scored 15, but then I put unnecessary pressure on myself at the end. I could have finished it more calmly.”
Still, it turned out to be your best round of the tournament. How much your experience played a role in it?
“For me, popularity and familiarity with the pitch don’t play that big role. My result always depends more on how I hit the balls that day. But I’ve played a lot here, which can also play a role.”
And also, for example, the previous successful starts in recent weeks?
“It’s true that my game has been going well lately. In France, at the LETAS tournament, I had been looking for a top 10 finish for a long time, and even a week ago in Kácov, it was not in vain. Here, the best of the previous weeks came together; the important thing was the comfort on the greens.”
Is the local resort now home for you? Sleeping in your own bed during the tournament, looking out the window at the course…
“Well, of course, it’s nice to arrive at your place after finishing in three minutes and live at home. However, I had planned to walk around the course more times in the previous weeks than I managed to do due to my perpetual traveling to other events. But I feel comfortable here and have my boyfriend with me“.
Will that comfort carry over into Saturday’s round?
“The plan is to not get under pressure, keep playing my game, and enjoy the tournament in front of the home crowd. Then another good result can come.”