That was an enjoyable first round! I'm delighted with my four-under par 68 on the opening day of the HSBC India Legends Championship on the Legends Tour at Jaypee Greens, co-sanctioned by the PGTI. My overall game felt strong, with five birdies and just one bogey on Hole 13. I birdied Holes 2, 6, 10, 12, and 15. Despite a solid performance, I recognize there's always room for improvement, particularly with my short game. Golf is a sport that you can never fully master, which is what makes it so thrilling and demanding. I'm currently tied in third place, behind first-round leader Joakim Haeggman from Sweden who shot a seven-under 65. He leads by two strokes over American Clark Dennis.
Joakim, who turned 55 on Wednesday, was the first Swede to play in the Ryder Cup in 1993. He has participated in six Legends Tour events this season, winning the MCB Tour Championship in the Seychelles in 2022. The golf course provided a fair challenge, measuring 7,047 yards as a par 72. Out of the 64-player field, only 13 players are under par, indicating the course was no walkover. I attribute my good play to being able to relax on the course. Despite a hectic week, I finally managed to switch off and focus on my game. The heat and humidity today made staying focused a real challenge.
On Saturday, I'll be paired again with Brazil’s Adilson Da Silva and 2005 U.S. Open champion Michael Campbell from New Zealand, with a tee time at 8.30 am. Adilson is also on 68, while Michael shot a 73. My friend and fellow Indian Jyoti Randhawa is also on 68, so having two Indian golfers in the top five should add local interest for the weekend. I've just completed all my media duties and interviews—I'm always glad to cooperate. Now, I'm going to grab a bite to eat—it's been a while since my early breakfast. This afternoon, I'll relax and spend time with the family.
For those inquiring about my son Harjai Milkha Singh, he's growing up quickly. At just 14 years old, he plays off a four handicap and is a member of the India Junior Development Squad. Harjai was a bit disappointed with his 31 Stableford Points in the Legends Amateur Experience Division, tied with cricket legend Yuvraj Singh, five points behind the leaders. I played with Yuvraj today—he naturally excels at hitting a golf ball. Retired cricketers are likely better golfers than older golfers trying to play cricket.
Wish me luck for the second round. A good rest and a night’s sleep will prepare me for what's to come in the morning. Jeev Milkha Singh, a Dubai Golden Visa Awardee, is 52 years old and was the first Indian player to join the DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour) in 1998 and played in the Masters. He has 20 worldwide professional wins to his name.
