"A lot of people have been telling me, 'This is your year,'" Justin Rose said.
Rose, 46, of England, is making another bid for his first Masters title after last year's dramatic runner-up finish. Speaking at a press conference at the Press Building of Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, on Sunday, he said, "This is my 21st appearance, but it always feels like the first time."
"I'm well aware that I need to manage those expectations from people," Rose said. "I have to stay focused on my own story rather than getting swept up in what others are saying." He added that his preparation this year differed from last year. "I took a trip with my family, and I skipped the Valero Texas Open right before this to play two practice rounds here last week," he said.
Currently ranked ninth in the world, Rose fired a 66 in the final round of last year's Masters to force a playoff against Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, only to narrowly finish as runner-up after conceding a birdie on the first extra hole. He effectively served as a spectacular supporting act for McIlroy's historic career Grand Slam. While many players fall into slumps after painful near-misses, Rose went on to add two PGA Tour victories, bringing his career total to 13 wins.
Asked whether his age of 46 is a burden or a source of motivation, Rose said, "Getting better at this age is certainly not easy, but it definitely serves as motivation. It drives me to find new habits and new ways to improve." He emphasized, "What matters most is that I still enjoy the process. If you're enjoying it, you don't feel your age."
Rose also noted the importance of getting his legs back in shape. "I came here last week and walked 18 holes, and no matter how hard you prepare in the fitness center, an actual round is different," he said. "In the past, I would try to start Thursday's first round in perfect condition. Now I know it's important to save energy through Sunday's final round. Starting strong matters, but you also have to finish well."
When asked whether near-miss experiences boost his confidence or leave scars, Rose said, "I'd like to think they boost my confidence." He added, "I've often felt I played well enough to win. I just couldn't take that last step." The 90th Masters begins on Wednesday.