It was in the servants’ quarters of the Royal Calcutta Golf Club where SSP Chawrasia began life. From his humble beginnings, the former caddie has enjoyed a monumental rise in the sport since turning professional in 1997.
With golf returning to the Olympics this year after a gap of 112 years, Chawrasia, Anirban Lahiri and Aditi Ashok will be the three Indian golfers representing the country in Rio.
Chawrasia will be aware of the importance of a medal. It could change the dynamics of the sport in India. It will also be one of the biggest crowns for a golfer who has risen from the humblest of beginnings.
It was in 2008 when Chawrasia first shot to fame, winning the Indian Masters title, followed by a European Tour event. Since then, he won two more titles on the European Tour, the 2011 Avantha Masters and the Indian Open earlier this year.
Prior to his heroics on the international platform, he had also won ten titles on the Indian Golf Tour.
SSP Chawrasia, now one of India’s best golfers, will hope to give account of himself in Rio. With the golf event at this year’s Olympics already being hit by high-profile pull-outs, Chawrasia and Co will fancy their medal chances.
