‘That average year was just a mind thing’

The year: Every time a question is asked of it, Jeev just refers to as “average.” A year when his best finish came only at the fag end — a joint 7th — at the Dunlop Phoenix Open in Japan.

“I guess I just had too many expectations from myself,” he says. “After the highs of 2006, I think it was just human to think that I could keep winning, do as well every time. In the end, it was just a mental thing, I would say.”

The game, he insists, has never been better. “I’m driving really well. I’m feeling great about my hitting, and in fact, I think, playing much better than even 2006,” he says.

The focus, then, for 2008, Jeev says, is on starting well. “The cut off for entering the majors comes around March. I hope to have a good start and get back into the world top-50 before that,” he says, having once gone up as high as 37th, but now perched at a precarious 79th.

“To me, my playing the majors just feels like a dream run. I’m really looking forward to be able to do it again.”

Jeev also distinguishes himself by being a much-travelled player — having played all over the world, in almost all the popular tours and being known as one of the most active players.

“I like to see myself as a global player. But that, you know, comes at a cost. Travelling too much takes a toll on your health. And that in turn makes you a lot more injury prone. I do plan to cut back on the number of tournaments next year.

“So the focus is going to be Europe for me next year. Though I do hope to go the US for the World Golf Championships, and the majors,” he adds. A whole new year beckons. For now though, it’s better to leave him to the chocolate cake.