Freddy Schott talks about nerves, mistakes, and relief after his first DP World Tour victory in Bahrain.
After his win at the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship on the DP World Tour, Freddy Schott was at a loss for words: \”It still hasn’t fully sunk in. That will take some time, but it’s incredible,\” said the Düsseldorf native, who celebrated his first DP World Tour victory at the Royal Golf Club. In a dramatic playoff, Schott triumphed over Patrick Reed and Calum Hill, marking the most important chapter in his career so far.
Freddy Schott: \”Nerves Hit on the Back Nine\”
The final day demanded everything from the German. \”It was tough, especially towards the end,\” Schott described his time on the course. The start was \”okay\” as he played solidly with a good rhythm. However, with the back nine came the tension: \”Of course, the nerves set in from there.\”
Nevertheless, Schott managed to stay composed. \”I was glad I managed it quite well – not perfect, but okay,\” he reflected. Imperfections showed particularly on the 11th hole. After missing an eagle on 10, an unfortunate tee shot followed: \”The plan was to aim six or seven meters right of the flag, but I pulled it. Pulled shots often go long.\” The ball landed \”very hot\” behind the green, and the following chip failed. \”Two putts, just a silly double bogey.\”
Birdies at the Right Time and a Shared Lead
Instead of letting the setback derail him, Schott made a conscious decision. \”We usually get a ride from 11 to 12, but I said: Okay, I won’t ride, I’ll walk to calm down and stay in the moment.\” He reminded himself of the core of his sport: \”These are the moments you are here for; that’s why you play golf – so try to push the accelerator and keep going.\”
And so he did. \”We played a beautiful shot on 12 and made a good birdie on 13,\” Schott recounted, before focusing on \”just getting it somehow to the clubhouse\” in the final holes. At 17 under par, he shared the lead with Reed and Hill after 72 holes – a playoff was inevitable. In the playoff, Schott kept his nerves. Two playoff holes were enough to seal the victory. Hill faltered, Reed was already out – Schott remained error-free and completed his triumph with a par.
Caddie as an Anchor: \”We Talked About Everything, Except Golf\”
His caddie played a key role. \”Fortunately, I talked a lot with Taka,\” Schott said. \”He kept me completely away from all those thoughts. We talked about everything, except golf – and that was great.\” His conclusion: \”He did an incredible job this week, and I couldn’t be happier to work with him.\”
The emotional moment after the last putt was almost indescribable. \”How I feel is beyond words,\” Schott