'People have started realising golf can be a profession in itself'

Currently the highest ranked Indian golfer in the world, Jeev Milkha Singh created ripples in the game, becoming the first Indian to enter the world`s top 100 league in 2006. He and his father, illustrious sportsperson Milkha Singh, are the only Indian duo to have each been awarded the Padma Shri and Arjuna awards. Speaking with Arun Sharma, Singh discussed his passion for golf, how he foresees the game becoming as popular as cricket in India — and how his mother has also been an important part of his love for sport:
You come from a family orientated towards athletics — how did you end up playing golf?
To tell you the truth, i wanted to play a game that i could keep playing till the age of 60 or 70.No sport except golf allows you such a luxury...i actually started playing in Chandigarh when i was about nine years old. My father took me to the course and i would pull his trolley about, then play a few shots. That`s how i became hooked to it.
Golf is seen as an elite sport in India. What needs to be done to popularise it?
Academies and colleges should be set up to tap young golfing talent. People should get access to golf courses. That`s crucial.
But in a country like India where cricket is devoutly worshipped, do you see golf becoming popular?
Yes — in the next decade, golf will become as popular as cricket. The media, especially TV, is playing a key role in popularising the sport. A lot of young people who watch the game on TV have been lured towards it. There is also good money in it and young people have started realising that golf can be a profession in itself.
Do you feel the Asian level of play matches that of the West?
Well, golf is becoming very popular in Asia. Consider this — a few years ago, there was no organised tour in Asia. But now, with the Asian PGA tour, we`re on firm footing. Playing conditions too have improved considerably and thanks to television, the popular exposure is widespread now.
You have played a significant role in bringing golf to young enthusiasts` notice in India — along the way, what`s been your most memorable tournament?
I think the 1996 Asian Pro when i scored 26 under par — my best score so far. It was as if God had answered my prayers and all my hard work had paid off.
Do you also attribute part of your success in the sporting arena to your father, Milkha Singh?
Of course. His guidance has been a big advantage. Everyone knows my father, the `Flying Sikh` of the 1960s — but there may be some who don`t know that my mother, Nirmal Kaur, too is a former captain of the Indian volleyball team. Thus, sport runs in my genes. I could honestly say i was born in a household which only breathed and dreamed of sports.
As India`s best-known professional golfer today, what is your ultimate aim?
To win a medal in the Rio Olympics as golf is included in it. And also to become the world golf champion soon.