Alexander Levy will bring a large contingent of French players to the 2018 edition of the HNA Open de France - 3rd Rolex Series event of the year. France will be represented by Alexander Levy, but also Michaël Lorenzo-Vera, Grégory Bourdy, Romain Wattel, Grégory Havret and Raphaël Jacquelin, who all hope to become the first French player to lift the French Open trophy since the superb victory. by Thomas Levet in 2011.

Photo: DR

Alexander Levy obtained his 5th Hassan II Trophy title just two weeks ago and currently ranks 46th in the Official World Golf Ranking, the best ranking of his career. Beating Spain's Alvaro Quiros, he is improving his chances of being selected by captain Thomas Bjørn in September for the Ryder Cup which will take place on his home soil.

"The course is really beautiful, it is one of the best in my eyes", says the 27-year-old. “I can't wait to play in the French Open, which is one of the most beautiful competitions of the year. "

“Playing at home involves a little extra pressure but it's fun to play in front of your supporters. We know that the Ryder Cup is waiting for us in September, which makes this season a little bit special. "

Michaël Lorenzo-Vera, who tied for 3rd last year, hopes again to be able to compete with the best on the Golf National course in June.

“I played really well at the French Open last year and felt the course suited my game perfectly. It’s the best result I have had there and I’ve got it. would like to do even better this year and win the Open. "

“I can't wait to do battle again this year and try to make this dream come true. "

Gregory Bourdy, who has won 4 tournaments on the European circuit, says: “The French Open is a great tournament and as a Frenchman it means a lot to me. Playing Golf National knowing that the Ryder Cup will be on the same course later in the year is very exciting, I hope we have a great tournament. "

“The course is strewn with difficulties, but it is nonetheless exceptional and I am sure it will be in excellent condition. "

Romain Wattel, who won his 1st European Tour title last year at the KLM Open, adds: “We are always delighted to participate in this tournament, which is special for all of us. The course is fantastic, the crowd is great, and I think the tournament will be perfect ahead of the Ryder Cup. "

Gregory Havret, winner of then world number 3 Phil Mickelson in a play-off to decide the winner of the Scottish Open in 2007, believes the tournament will give fans a taste of what to expect at the Ryder Cup in September.

“I'm even more looking forward to it than the other years. This edition will be particularly exciting knowing that the Ryder Cup will be waiting for us right after. The French Open will be the last tournament organized at the Golf National before this exceptional event, ” says Havret.

“The French Open has taken on another dimension since last year, and its entry into the Rolex Series thanks to the new partnership has a lot to do with it. French audiences can expect a fantastic show. I hope there will be a lot of noise and excitement during the Ryder Cup. The French Open will give us a good overview. "

And Raphaël Jacquelin adds: “The French Open is a tournament steeped in history and it's always an honor to take part. "

To know more : https://www.golf-national.com/open-de-france/