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Grace sets sights on Top 10 ranking

Cape Town - South African star golfer Branden Grace admits that winning on any tour is tough, but believes he has what it takes to enter the winner's circle once again this season.

Grace, who had a top year in 2016, finished seventh in the Race to Dubai standings with one European Tour victory at the Qatar Masters.

In addition to his European success, a win on the PGA Tour at the RBC Heritage, and a Top 5 finish at the US Open and tied-fourth spot at the year's final Major, the PGA Championship, saw Grace reach his career-best ranking of 10th.

However, a few missed cuts in late 2016 saw South Africa's top-ranked golfer end the year in 17th position.

But with a new season, comes a new start and Grace has his sights set on another win and possibly a major title.

"I feel I always give myself reasonable goals, we all want to win as much as possible," Grace told Sport24.

"It's so tough to win any tournament these days so I think one of my main goals is to get another win.

"If I manage to get one win a new goal will be set and I'll be going for a second win and so on. I'd rather do it that way than saying I want to win four times."

"I'm a big fan of ticking off goals as I go on and progress through the year, I feel this keeps me sharp and always hungry for more success."

Grace is confident that he can get back to the highest echelons of the rankings and has targeted a Top 10 spot at the end of 2017.

"I've had a couple of solid years so I would like to get back in the Top 10, I think my game is good enough to be there on a consistent basis," said the 28-year-old.

"I'm 17th at the moment, but I feel positive about my game so I am keen to get back in the Top 10, then once I'm there I will likely set new goals to get into the Top 5 and so on."

READ: Grace: Golf still needs Tiger

The 2016/17 season has already been plagued by back injuries to several star players with Rory McIlory and Tiger Woods both withdrawing from multiple tournaments.

Grace admits that although he is not concerned over injuries affecting his game, he does believe that in order to compete consistently, golfers need to stick to a schedule that suits their particular game.

"I think scheduling is very important," said Grace.

"This is what these guys are trying to do and are really trying to plan when they play their best.

"If I choose the right schedule and play courses I know and can compete strongly over then I feel if your game is in good shape you will be consistent.

"I'm obviously looking for wins, but failing that consistency is what you are looking for. If you can go through the season making every cut, have some top finishes and close calls then it is a top season."

Grace will compete in the PGA Tour's Genesis Open in Riviera Country Club, starting on Thursday, February 16.

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