Europe’s Rock Star

With Flowing Mane And Stellar Game Tommy Fleetwood Goes His Own Way
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES | Look to the sky above the European Tour’s headquarters and you might notice a situations-vacant banner fluttering in the Surrey breeze: "Wanted. Another World Star. Golfing ability spoken for. Need only apply if you are European with an attractive, unusual personality and relish being in the spotlight."

Rory McIlroy’s four major championships, appearances at the top of the world ranking and ability to play startling golf have deservedly given the Northern Irishman worldwide status and true recognition in the US. McIlroy though, without a major championship victory since 2014, seems currently to be generating more questions than answering them. The impeccably mannered Justin Rose, who alternates as world No 1, lives in the Bahamas and while a committed member of the European Tour, plays it only occasionally.

Who then is the next European to be booted and spurred for the world stage, a player capable of being as at home and popular at Shinnecock Hills or Augusta as Wentworth or Carnoustie? Martin Kaymer was once, briefly, until he discovered he didn’t like being world No 1. Francesco Molinari, the Open champion and winner of the 2018 Race to Dubai, has the playing credentials but looks less comfortable in the spotlight than he is on a course. Ditto Jon Rahm, the gifted Spaniard.

Step forward Tommy Fleetwood, whose golfing skills are unquestioned as the current world N...