Last swing for Mike Lorenzo-Vera in Crans-Montana

It promises to be an emotional week for Mike Lorenzo-Vera. The French golfer is playing his very last professional tournament at the OMEGA European Masters, turning a new page after nearly twenty years on the circuit.

"Until yesterday, I was fine," he smiles. "But now that I'm back on the course, the pressure and emotion are starting to build. I'm happy to be retiring: I left school at 15 to devote myself to golf, started hitting balls at 6... it's been quite a journey. Today, I have other projects that excite me and I no longer have the drive to put everything back in place to return to the top level. It's a good decision."

The decision, although difficult to make, has nevertheless brought him relief since the spring: "I stopped in April and it did me good. Of course, with this last tournament coming up, you get back into the swing of things a bit, but it confirms that I'm no longer cut out for it. I'm still going to give it my all this week, but above all I'm happy to be able to turn the page with peace of mind and pride."

Ending his career in Valais is not insignificant. "This tournament is very special to me. I lost my father here ten years ago, I've made a lot of friends in Crans, I love the course and the setting. It was the perfect tournament to end on."

It promises to be an emotional moment, surrounded by his children, his mother, and two close friends, Alexander Levy and Marcel Siem, whom he has chosen to share his final round with: "I may need to take a few minutes alone before the start, but after that... let's go! They are my friends, but they will still be competitors during the week."

Looking back, Mike recalls a few memorable moments: "The final in Dubai remains a huge memory. I played some great, solid rounds, faced Jon Rahm... Many people think I cracked on Sunday, but I still shot -3 on a demanding course. It was a great week. And then being called up for the Ryder Cup fittings, alongside Sergio Garcia, was something unforgettable."

If he could replay one shot from his career? "Here in Crans in 2018, when I was tied for the lead with Matt Fitzpatrick. On the 14th, I hit a fantastic shot, but the ball took an inexplicable bounce and flew into the trees... If I could replay that shot, with the expected bounce, I don't think I would have let my chance slip away."

This week, emotions will be running high. But more than tears, it is pride and gratitude that will mark the final swing of a busy career.