Joost Luiten’s fifth major

Last year, Joost Luiten won the title he regards as his ‘fifth major’, the KLM Open. This time around, the Dutchman returns to his homeland looking for a repeat of that success, having not won an event since.

Tweleve months ago, the world No.51 became the tournament’s first first home winner in a decade. This year, he’s going all out to make his home nation proud once again, as he looks to become the first Dutchman to defend a European Tour title.

“Winning in my own country was very special,” last year’s Lyoness Open champion told europeantour.com. “For it to happen early on in my career was a dream come true.

“I can’t wait to play in front of the home crowds again.” – Joost Luiten

“So it will be a proud moment for me to return as defending champion and I can’t wait to play in front of the home crowds again. Their support last year was unbelievable.

“This tournament is definitely the fifth major for me. Having another Dutch winner was great for golf in Holland and showed that the game here is moving in the right direction.”

Joost Luiten searching for elusive win

With five top tens to his name this year, Luiten has shown consistency. Although, in contrast to last season, where the EurAsia Cup man won twice, he’s still without a victory in 2014.

Having gone close two weeks ago at the Italian Open, finishing fourth, he’s hoping to finally transfer his good form into a win.

“This week would be the perfect place to put that right.” – Joost Luiten

“It’s nice to come into the tournament after a good result in Italy,” said the 28-year-old.

“I’ve been in contention quite a few times this year without managing to quite get the job done, so this week would be the perfect place to put that right. I’ll give it my best shot.”

Challenging Joost Luiten

If Luiten is to lift the trophy for a second time, he will need to beat some stiff competition from some of the tour’s in-form stars.

Scotland’s Marc Warren will be looking to add to his Made in Denmark crown in the Netherlands, whilst Ryder Cup vice captain Miguel Angel Jimenez and Mikko Ilonen will also compete.

Shane Lowry is set to tee it up in Zandvoort, too, as are Richie Ramsay and Thomas Bjorn.