Boutier keeps hopes high

LONDON, United Kingdom (AFP) — Celine Boutier admits it is a long shot but she still starts as favorite to make it three wins in a row at the final major of the season, this weekend's Women's British Open at Walton Heath.

The 29-year-old claimed her first major on home soil at the Evian Championship two weeks ago and followed up with a win in the Scottish Open.

"I know the odds, even to win two in a row are very rare," she pointed out.

"It would be unbelievable to win again this week."

"But I'm feeling good, a little bit tired physically but I'll just try and focus on putting a few good rounds together and try and give myself a chance on Sunday."

"I am happy to have won my first major and winning at Evian in front of my family and the French fans was something I had always dreamed of doing, so anything else is a bonus."

South African Ashleigh Buhai defends the title she won at Muirfield in Scotland a year ago.

"It's fantastic to be back after a whirlwind year, so many memories," she said.

"Winning a major has given me so much confidence. It gave me the belief that I can win when I am playing well."

"But I'm trying not to put too much pressure on myself. It's very hard to defend a title," she added.