Matteo Manassero and the week “everything changed”

On the eve of returning to defend his Castello Masters title in Spain, Matteo Manassero reflects on the victory that changed everything for him.

The Italian became the youngest ever winner on the European Tour when he lifted the trophy at Club de Campo el Mediterraneo last year at the age of just 17 years and 188 days.

Manassero's potential was already apparent to the golfing world when he won the 2010 Sir Henry Cooper Rookie of the Year. This was combined with winning the British Amateur Championship and claiming the silver Medal at The Open Championship in 2009.

The 18 year-old won last year's Castello Masters with a four shot lead over Spain's Ignacio Garrido and pocketed a cheque for just over €330,000.

The way Manassero won his maiden tour trophy impressed everyone in the

world of golf and it's no shock that he currently lies 20th in the Race

to Dubai.

Manassero said: "Last year was very special for me because it was my first victory. Everything has changed. It would be great if I can win again in Castellón. Winning again is always a dream, I've got experience now."