In the 1942 film “Casablanca,” Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman always had Paris. Similarly, Natalie Gulbis, a distinguished member of the L.P.G.A. Tour from the United States, will always have Evian. Gulbis, who played in the Solheim Cup three times, secured her only tour victory at the 2007 Evian Masters. In a thrilling playoff hole, she defeated Jang Jeong of South Korea for the win. Despite trailing Juli Inkster by four shots heading into the final round, Gulbis closed with a remarkable two-under 70. Now 40 years old and playing only a few tournaments due to multiple back surgeries, Gulbis reflects on her memorable triumph in France.
When asked about that week in 2007, Gulbis recalls the relief she felt at winning the tournament. After working tirelessly to become a tour professional and experiencing multiple second-place finishes, the victory was a long-awaited accomplishment. Additionally, Gulbis mentions the special significance of the event, as she was paired with her close friend Annika Sorenstam during the tournament.
Regarding the playoff hole, Gulbis remembers her focus on hitting a solid second shot and ensuring she carried the water, giving herself a chance at victory. Her caddie wisely advised her to use less club, knowing that adrenaline often accompanies players in contention.
Gulbis highlights the exceptional qualities of the Evian event, such as its breathtaking location in the hills overlooking Lake Geneva, the incredible golf course, and the exceptional treatment given to competitors throughout the tournament. She compares the experience to the prestigious Masters tournament.
When asked about why her Evian victory remains her only tour victory, Gulbis dismisses any disappointment, stating that team events have been the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of her career. She muses on how winning multiple individual events might have shaped her feelings differently.
Despite not winning numerous tournaments, Gulbis does not feel disappointed. She emphasizes the privilege of being a professional athlete and competing worldwide as a member of the L.P.G.A.
Reflecting on the current state of the tour, Gulbis expresses astonishment at the incredible growth and progress. She cites the upcoming season playing for over $100 million in prize money, a significant milestone that she could not have imagined just ten years ago.
Gulbis recounts her most nervous moment in a Solheim Cup, which occurred in Sweden in 2007 when she played as the anchor match. Initially overwhelmed by the pressure, she ultimately won her match and helped secure victory for the team.
Excited about being an assistant to captain Stacy Lewis at the upcoming Solheim Cup in Spain, Gulbis anticipates a different experience and increased nervousness in her new role. She praises Lewis’s dedication to regaining the Cup and expresses her desire to support Lewis in any way possible.
When asked if she would want to be a captain herself someday, Gulbis remains uncertain. She prefers to reserve judgment until she has experienced the role of an assistant captain fully.
Finally, Gulbis credits her instructor, Butch Harmon, for making an immense impact on her career. Over two decades of working together since she was 18 years old, Harmon has not only improved her golf skills but also guided her in various aspects of being a professional golfer. Gulbis expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with him.
Overall, Gulbis shares her unique experiences as a professional golfer and looks forward to new opportunities within the sport, including her involvement in the Solheim Cup and her continued relationship with Butch Harmon.
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