[Masters] Im Sungjae "Third Appearance"... "Runner-up and Cut Off, What About This Time?"

2020 Fall Masters Runner-up, Last Year's Cut Off, Fall and Spring "Different Strategies for Augusta National"

Im Sung-jae is executing a bunker shot on the 2nd hole during a practice round ahead of the Masters opening on the night of the 7th. Augusta, USA=Getty Images/Multibits

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Runner-up → Cut off → What about this time?"

‘Shriners Champ’ Im Sung-jae (24) is making his third Masters appearance. The ‘Masters,’ the ‘Tournament of Masters,’ kicks off the 2022 season’s first major on the night of the 7th (Korean time) at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA (par 72, 7,510 yards). This year, the ‘Golf Emperor’ Tiger Woods is appearing, already generating intense excitement. World stars including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (USA) and No. 2 Jon Rahm (Spain) have all gathered.

It is interesting that Im Sung-jae finished runner-up at the ‘Autumn Masters’ postponed to November in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On the final day, he faced Dustin Johnson (USA) in the champion group, creating big news. However, last year, he struggled after a quadruple bogey with a ‘7 on 2 putts’ including a chip shot that landed in the water from just 29 yards at the 15th hole (par 5) on the first day, finishing 5 over par, and then 8 over par on the second day, ultimately missing the cut after a tough path.

As a result, the strategy for Augusta National’s course differed between autumn and spring, including the condition and speed of the fairway and greens. He humbly stated, "I will first advance to the third round and then try to compete for the championship." Reflecting, he said, "I was very nervous during my first appearance in 2020, but I was comfortable with good scores through the second round," adding, "Especially my putting was good." He added, "If I play calmly, opportunities will come in the 3rd and 4th rounds."

For Im Sung-jae, above all, the patrons (Masters gallery) are new. For the past two years, there were no spectators or only limited small crowds, but now full attendance is allowed. Along with Woods’ practice rounds, crowds are already flocking. "I watched Woods’ swing at the practice range," he said, expressing admiration, "It was respectful to see him back in competition." He raised expectations for playing alongside Woods, saying, "Since Woods is my role model, I think I will be very nervous playing together."