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Shubhankar Sharma, India's rising golf star, is brimming with confidence as he sets his sights on the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. The 28-year-old, who recently finished tied 19th at the Open Championship, believes a medal is within reach.Sharma's optimism stems from his impressive performance at Royal Troon, where he battled through challenging conditions to secure a top-20 finish. The experience, he says, has put him in an "Olympics mindset.""You could not take any shot for granted at The Open last week," Sharma said. "It was a grind from the first tee shot to the last putt, and that's what I would expect at the Olympics as well."Sharma is also buoyed by his recent form, which includes a top-5 finish at the Italian Open and 15 birdies over the weekend at the Scottish Open. He attributes his improvement to hard work and a renewed focus on his game."I have started seeing the reward for those hours," Sharma said. "I'm looking forward to Le Golf National."The Le Golf National, the venue for the Olympic golf tournament, is known for its challenging layout. Sharma believes his ball-striking ability will be crucial to success there."It can easily separate the boys from men," Sharma said. "You need to be a superior ball-striker to do well there, as you needed to do at Royal Troon."Sharma is aware of the underdog status of the Indian golf team, but he is determined to make a mark."I honestly think the Olympics can create a very different kind of motivation," Sharma said. "I am very aware of what kind of a spotlight a good performance in France by any one of us would put on Indian golf."Sharma will be joined by Gaganjeet Bhullar in the men's event, while Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar will represent India in the women's event. The golf competition at the Tokyo Olympics begins on Thursday, August 1.

Shubhankar Sharma, the Indian golf sensation, has turned the tables on Royal Troon Golf Club after enduring a tumultuous start to The Open Championship. On Saturday, in the third round played under relatively favorable conditions, Sharma unleashed a blistering four-under par 67, significantly improving his position heading into the final round.The conditions were a stark contrast to the relentless battering Sharma faced in the first two rounds. Thursday's rain and wind gave way to Friday's gusts reaching almost 50 kilometers per hour. Sharma's group bore the brunt of the worst weather, but he remained undeterred."I made the most of the conditions today," said Sharma. "I got off to a hot start and hit it really well. I was struggling with energy after yesterday, but I'm happy with my round."Despite the sun's absence, Sharma made hay on the course, producing eight birdies. Royal Troon remained a formidable foe, however, and a double bogey on the 15th hole was the only blemish on his day.Undeterred, Sharma responded with a spectacular 30-foot birdie putt on the 16th hole and another birdie on the 18th following a pinpoint iron shot. He also had a chance on the difficult par-3 17th hole, where his birdie putt from 19 feet shaved the cup."I'm not disappointed with the double bogey," said Sharma. "We just got a bad ruling there. I'm delighted with my score."Sharma's resilience is a testament to his character. He secured his spot at The Open this year with an eighth-place finish at Royal Liverpool last year, where he played a battling final round in heavy rain without making a single bogey."Royal Troon is a much tougher course," said Sharma. "But I'm happy I knuckled down and played well yesterday for a one-over. It makes the birthday celebrations much better than doing it after a missed cut."

The 152nd Open Championship, scheduled for July 18-21 at Royal Troon, will witness a significant increase in prize money, with the winner set to receive a record-breaking USD 3.1 million. This marks a half-a-million-dollar increase from the previous edition, bringing the total prize purse to USD 17 million.The R&A, the governing body of the Open, has emphasized the need to balance the tournament's global standing with the funding required for amateur and recreational golf development worldwide. CEO Martin Slumbers expressed concerns about the impact of substantial prize money increases on the sport's perception and long-term financial sustainability.The Open remains committed to supporting the growth of golf globally, with additional prize money being allocated if more than 70 professional golfers qualify for the final two rounds. However, prize money will decrease by USD 125 per qualifying place above 70, with a minimum of USD 37,650.Non-qualifiers will also receive financial compensation, with the leading 10 and tied professional golfers among those not making the cut receiving USD 12,350 each. The following 20 professional golfers and ties will receive USD 10,300, while the remainder and ties will get USD 8,750.The increased prize money at the Open reflects the tournament's continued status as one of the most prestigious events in golf. It also highlights the R&A's commitment to supporting the sport at all levels, while ensuring its long-term financial health.

Shubhankar Sharma, the 27-year-old Indian golfer, has matured significantly in his approach to the Open Championship. In the past, he would rush to the golf course upon arrival at the venue, eager to practice extensively. However, this year at Royal Troon, he opted for a day of rest, recognizing the importance of preserving his energy for the grueling tournament.Sharma's decision stems from his thorough preparation during an earlier reconnaissance trip in May. He played three practice rounds alongside his coach, Jessie Grewal, gaining valuable insights into the challenging course. This prior knowledge allows him to approach the tournament with confidence and avoid unnecessary exertion.Sharma's recent performance at the Scottish Open also bolsters his optimism. Despite a disappointing triple bogey on the final hole, he displayed impressive form, making six birdies and finishing even-par on Saturday. This performance reinforces his belief that he is playing well and ready for the challenge ahead.During his May visit to Royal Troon, Sharma had the privilege of interacting with legendary golfer Tom Watson, who was hosting a clinic for Mastercard clients. Sharma was inspired by Watson's presence and the opportunity to play a hole with him.Sharma acknowledges the formidable nature of Royal Troon, particularly the relentless back nine that plays into headwinds. He emphasizes the importance of accurate ball-striking and precise tee shots to navigate the course successfully.Sharma's opening round on Thursday will see him paired with Matteo Manassero of Italy and Sebastian Soderberg of Sweden. He is confident in his preparation and eager to showcase his skills on one of the toughest golf courses in the Open rota.