The pros’ dislike of the stiffening of the West Course challenge overseen by Ernie Els in 2009 led to much criticism and a series of high-profile no-shows for one of European golf’s premier events – of which Poulter was one.
But Poulter is back in the field for the first time in three years tomorrow and yesterday expressed his pleasure at the about-turn which has returned the course to something closer to its original origins.
“It was very crucial. I think the changes last time, on a number of holes, were too severe,” said Poulter. “This tournament deserves a golf course in fantastic condition. It has been pretty much a flagship event for a very long time. It’s the home of the Tour.
“I can remember being a kid, coming around watching Seve and Woosie and Faldo and all the guys play this great golf course. Everyone knows Wentworth and it really should be one of the best courses on the rota that we play.
“I’m personally very pleased that it has been changed and because of that, I am extremely excited to go out there and play tomorrow because I would love to walk out of Wentworth Golf Club and say ‘I absolutely love it.’” One of the biggest upgrades is to the greens which have all been relaid. That should work to a revitalised Poulter’s advantage as he chases the top-two finish that would earn him a spot in next month’s US Open after missing the last four Majors.
“The greens were bumpy,” he said. “I don’t think they were as good as everyone would have liked them to have been. I don’t think that’s a secret to anybody.
“You could play an average golf course with perfect greens, and you’ll find all the pros turn around and say what a fantastic golf course – you can have an amazing golf course with terrible greens and unfortunately you’re going to get guys that are going to bitch and moan about how bad the golf course is.
“So I think the greens are a huge part of the makeup of a golf course and what people think of it.”
Defending champion Chris Wood believes the West Course will play at least five shots easier this year because of the changes.
“The surfaces are immaculate,” said Wood. “The greens seem to be rolling very true and 34 bunkers being taken out is a massive change. For me, it’s between one and two shots easier a round.
“My nine-under par won last year. I’d think you have to be 15-under par this year to have a chance.”
