World number 27 Paul Casey believes there is no other place in the world where golf has attracted so much attention and popularity than Japan.

Speaking ahead of this week’s SMBC Singapore Open, which is co-sanctioned by JGTO and the Asian Tour, Casey is looking forward to returning to Japan to compete and experience the country’s hospitality again.

“Japanese golf is incredibly strong. Playing in Japan in front of a passionate crowd is one of the greatest things you can do as a golfer. I have been very fortunate to do that many times throughout my career, and I look forward to that again.

“Their love for the game is really beyond what you have seen anywhere else on the planet. Their knowledge of the game, their respect for it is infectious,” said Casey. 

The Englishman may have won 21 professional titles around the world, but that win on JGTO has still eluded him. Casey last played on the JGTO when he finished tied-17th at the Zozo Championship, and his last visit to Japan was during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which he has described as ‘one of the best experiences’ in his life.

Casey spent much of his off season building legos with his children, and while he admits he still lacks sharpness in his game, he is ready to better his tied-second finish from 2019 and try to win the SMBC Singapore Open.

“I’m here to win. I probably lack a little bit of match sharpness, but overall, my game is good. I feel physically good, and I'm just really excited to get the season going. 

“I built a lot of legos with my kids during the off season. I didn't really travel and didn't really want to get on an airplane too much. I just tried to be diligent, professional and work on my fitness,” said Casey.