Francesco Molinari out to impress Olazabal

Francesco Molinari is hoping a good Italian Open can act as a springboard to Ryder Cup success.

The European side set to take on the USA in the biennial battle at Medinah Country Club in two weeks time has been enjoying much success on both side of the Atlantic recently.

Rory McIlroy is dominating the FedEx Cup at the moment, having won the past two events in PGA Tour’s premier competition. It will take an unbelievable performance to stop him from winning the overall title and the $10 million cheque that goes with it.

However, the world No.1 isn’t alone in giving Jose Maria Olazabal reason to smile. Of others in his team Paul Lawrie added to his great year by winning the European Masters three weeks ago, Peter Hanson won last week in the Netherlands and Lee Westwood looked back to his best in finished second at the BMW Championship.

And not wanting to miss out Molinari is hoping he gives skipper Olazabal yet another reason to be confident when he tees it up in Turin today.

“Obviously with The Ryder Cup in two weeks, everything is getting very exciting,” said the 29 year old.

“I hope it’s going to be good preparation for [event]. It’s great to see so many players in the team on good form. Obviously Rory has been amazing in the last few weeks and it’s really good for the team spirit.

“The Americans had a really good early season and summer, so it’s important to show everyone that the Europeans are ready for The Ryder Cup.”

Not only does he have the Ryder Cup to focus his attention when he tees it up at the Royal Park Golf Club in but also the Race to Dubai. Molinari’s currently fourth in the standings and knows if he makes the cut he can move into third by leapfrogging Louis Oosthuizen. And taking place in his home town many are backing him to do more than just make the weekend.

However, the 2006 winner claims home advantage isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

“It’s different from normal weeks because of the pressure of the crowd wanting you to do well,” the Italian added. Plus we have extra things to do with press and sponsors. It’s more tiring than a regular week.

“It’s worse [having won in 2006] because then people expect you to win every year. It was great winning, but it doesn’t make it easier.”