Defending champion Francesco Molinari says he's comfortable with the expectation around him heading into this week's Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
The 36-year-old became the first Italian to land a major title when he lifted the Claret Jug at Carnoustie last summer.
Molinari's joined by Bryson DeChambeau and Adam Scott for the first two rounds in Portrush and is happy to be considered among the contenders again this year.
"I'm well aware of the challenges ahead. There's a lot of guys capable this week of winning the trophy. And, yeah, all I can do is do my best, try to put up a good defense and be in contention on Sunday.
But, yeah, it's a long week ahead so I'll try to take it step-by-step. Obviously going out first and getting to know the course better and see what we're going to face."
The world number seven played the Irish Open at this week's venue in 2012 and feels comfortable at the course.
"I remember most of the holes. I know 17 and 18 are not there anymore. But yeah, I just remember a strong golf course, mostly positional, I would say. Like many links, it's not really a course that you can overpower.
"But, yeah, I need to go out and see exactly the conditions to give a better statement. But my caddie has been here since Friday so he gave me little tips already. I'm looking forward to going out there and seeing again for myself."
Molinari has already handed back the Claret Jug - but says it might need a clean before Sunday.
"I was very, very careful with it, especially the first few weeks. So much so that I forgot my TrackMan on the plane not to forget the Claret Jug. That obviously had he priority.
We've had a couple of drinks out of it. Nothing out of the ordinary. I've got small kids at home so I had to keep it out of reach most of the time to avoid disaster."
