Thorbjorn Olesen impressively wins British Masters at The Belfry after ‘several difficult years’
An eagle finish sent Thorbjorn Olesen to the British Masters title at The Belfry on Sunday. The sixth win of his career at the DP World Tour, the former European Ryder Cupper has officially returned to the winners’ circle after three years of rollercoaster rides.
“It was obviously a pretty tough day,” said Olesen, who started the final round with a three-stroke lead. “I hit a lot of shots to the left and I was really having a hard time. Somehow I kept going and yeah, what an end, it’s unbelievable.”
Coming to par-5 on day 17, the 32-year-old found himself four times ahead of Sebastian Soderberg’s pace. Knowing something special would be required to fit into the club lead, Olesen found the green in two and faced a protracted eagle effort, which he eventually converted. Connecting remotely again on the 18th, Olesen won the British Masters crown.
“It was two very long putts, but, yes, somehow, I have a lot of faith in the number 17 that I can do it,” said Olesen. “I just tied it up somehow, it’s just unbelievable. Especially with the crowd, the British crowd has been stunning all week.”
Olesen’s win at Sutton Coldfield, England, marked his first win since the 2018 Italian Open. The following year, Dane made headlines for his actions after competing at the WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational 2019. On a flight from Nashville to London, Olesen was accused of sexual assault, assault by beating and being drunk on the flight after mixing alcohol and sleeping pills.
During a trial in December 2021, Olesen was found not guilty on each charge. “I feel absolutely horrible and I’m so sorry,” Olesen said. “I can’t believe what they’re saying what happened. I’m just embarrassed and feel horrible.
“I paid a very heavy price for my mistake,” he continued. “This case has had a serious impact on me personally, my family and my career.” Olesen, who was once ranked as high as 38 in the Official World Golf Ranking, has dropped outside the top 500, losing numerous contracts and sponsorships in the process.
After the victory at the British Masters, Olesen is expected to return to the top 200 in the world. “This is very special,” said Olesen. “It’s been a tough couple of years, so it’s very special.”
