Francesco Molinari is looking forward to getting his season up and running as he prepares to launch the defence of his Race to Dubai title at this week's WGC-Mexico Championship.
The Italian enjoyed a dream 2018 campaign, winning The 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links before becoming the first European to win five points out of five as Europe won The Ryder Cup at Le Golf National.
He also secured his maiden Rolex Series title at the BMW PGA Championship on his way to winning the Harry Vardon Trophy.
And Molinari makes his long-awaited return to action in Mexico this week, hoping to kick off his 2019 campaign in style.
He said: "I'm feeling great.
"Obviously it's different to show up as the Race to Dubai champion. I'll try to put up a good defence of that title and I'm looking forward to the season.
"I know it's not going to be easy to repeat but it's a long season and I'm glad to finally get started and hopefully get off to a strong start here in Mexico.
"I think the only way to follow up last year is to try and follow up with some of my own improvements, try not to get too outcome-focused.
"We all know in golf there are a lot of good players and the margins are very small, so I might play as well as last year and not win any tournaments.
"I need to be aware of that. I need to measure myself not so much on the wins but on how I feel on the course, how I play - and that's going to be the goal for the season, to try and improve what I feel like I can still improve and maintain what I was doing well last year."
Molinari is back to full fitness after struggling with a bout of flu last week.
He added: "Obviously I had a little hiccup last week. I got the flu and then I was in bed most of the week.
"I'm feeling pretty good now. It's obviously nice to be out after such a long break and I'm looking forward to getting my season started."
