Simon Forsström’s dream of winning a maiden DP World Tour title became a reality as he triumphed at the Soudal Open at Rinkven International Golf Club in Belgium.
The 34-year-old Swede carded a two-under-par final round of 69 to finish one stroke ahead of fellow countryman Jens Dantorp at Rinkven International Golf Club in Antwerp.
Prior to this year, Forsström spent seven consecutive seasons attempting to graduate from the Challenge Tour, but finally earned playing privileges on the top tier tour in Europe after winning Qualifying School Final Stage in November. He also previously secured his lone Challenge Tour victory in Belgium in 2016, when he won the KPMG Trophy.
Forsström started the final day one shot ahead and then held a three-stroke lead at the turn, but shared the lead with Dantorp with six holes to play after a double bogey on the tenth and another dropped shot on 12. But he fired back in style as he birdied 14, 16 and 17 to move one ahead with one to play.
Dantorp held the clubhouse lead on 16 under par after signing for a 67, but Forsström hit his approach on 18 to within five feet and he two-putted for a 17 under par total and his first DP World Tour title.
Finishing in third, two strokes back from Dantorp was Thorbjørn Olesen on 14 under, while Alexander Björk, Mike Lorenzo-Vera and Matt Southgate finished in a three-way tie for third. Home favourite Thomas Detry carded a closing 73 as he finished in a share of seventh.
After his stunning win, Forsström said: “I’m very happy and I’m glad I was able to prove to myself that I have what it takes to win out here. I think the course suited me very well, it’s pretty tight and short. I also won on the Challenge Tour in Belgium, so I think this country is good for me! I hope I can keep on proving myself and show that this wasn’t a one-time success.”
What’s in the Bag – Simon Forsström
Driver: Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond (10.5°)
Fairway Woods: Callaway Epic Max 3 & 5
Irons: Callaway Apex TCB (4-5); Callaway Apex MB ’21 (6-PW)
Wedges: Callaway JAWS Raw (50°, 56°, 60°)
Putter: Odyssey White Hot Versa 12 Putter