Sports

Simi Mehra

The winner of all eight women's pro golf events in India, on her sport

Advertisement

Simi Mehra
info_icon
There are 13 Asian women in the world’s top 25, but no Indian. Why?

Well, I’m the only one in the world circuit. Due to my elbow surgery last year I didn’t play much and so I don’t have any points. By the year-end, I should be around 50 to 70 in the rankings.

You’re the only Indian golfer on the women’s pro circuit in the US. Why?

It’s not an easy sport and travelling internationally is not easy. It’s tough financially—that’s the biggest deterrent for the Indian girls.

But more Indian girls are playing golf now?

Yes, a lot more. When we had our first pro event two years ago, there was just myself. Now there are about 12 Indian pros.

Advertisement

What about your sponsors?

This is the first year I’ve had an Indian sponsor, dlf. All the Koreans or Japanese have sponsors from back home, but one gets no financial backing here. When you don’t worry about your paycheque, you can think about your game.

Things are very different in men’s golf.

Yes, men’s golf is growing rapidly but it was difficult in the first 10 years of their pro tour.

Women’s pro golf is also facing teething troubles?

Yes, the first four-five years will be rocky, but it’ll get smooth with more money and tournaments. Girls could actually make a career out of it.

Advertisement

Any young Indian golfers to look out for?

Meghna Bal, Tanya Wadhwa, Sharmila Nicolette. If they make the right choices, they can reach where they want to go.

You’ve won all pro golf women’s events!

Unfortunately, playing in India has been easy because I play a completely different level of golf. But it’s good—a lot of publicity!

How’s your game after the surgery?

My arm’s completely fine. I need to play more to get the momentum back and by the year-end I think I will have got to my goals.

We hear you had a great Holi!

Yes, I did! I love playing at home!

Tags

    Advertisement

    Advertisement

    Advertisement

    Advertisement

    Advertisement

    Advertisement