Tiger Woods impressed by Jeev Milkha Singh

Shanghai, Nov 10 (UNI) Jeev Milkha Singh is, without an iota of doubt, going through the best phase of his career and the Indian's growing list of admirers has its latest entry in world number one Tiger Woods.

Playing for the first time together at the ongoing HSBC Champions here, Woods was all praise for his playing partner and the iconic American felt confidence made the all difference for the Indian who came out of wilderness to lift two trophies this season.

''I've met Jeev a few times but I've never played with him.

What he did at Valderamma, obviously, and what he's doing in Asia, he's having a great year,'' Woods said.

''I think it's just a matter of confidence. He's playing a lot of golf and he's starting to turn the corner. It's good to see. I know about him quite a bit and he's such a great guy,'' added the American.

Jeev, on the other hand, admitted getting a bit nervous in Woods' company even though he managed to outscore the American in the first round at the Sheshan International Golf Club.

''...I guess I was a little bit nervous playing with Tiger, but settled down pretty good after a few holes. I enjoyed playing with him because I've always had a lot of respect for what he's done for the game,'' Jeev said.

On his first round show, Jeev said, ''I'm pretty happy the way it's ended up...I shot two-under and it's the first round and playing with the big man, I was excited, so I'm happy I shot a 70.'' ''It's not really any extra buzz,'' he said in reference to outscoring Woods.

''It's just that I was pretty much excited about playing with him because I have a lot of respect for what he's done for the game of golf.

''Tomorrow I'll just go out and try to do the same thing and follow my routine and process and see what happens. I'm concentrating on my own game but also watching Tiger and how he manages himself on the golf course,'' Jeev said.

Asked what aspect of Woods' game drew his attention, Jeev said, ''His management I think is excellent. He forgets bad shots real quick and gets on to the next shot.'' UNI XC AY PDS PM1543