Scott Vincent is back at the tournament that reignited his career, focused on the process. As he returns to International Series Morocco presented by Visit Morocco as defending champion, he is blocking out the noise, trusting the form that has propelled him back among the game's elite, and focusing on the task of protecting his title.
The 33-year-old claimed the US$2 million title at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam last season, a victory followed by a runner-up finish at the Jakarta International Championship that helped secure his second International Series Rankings crown and a return to the LIV Golf League.
"The win here last year was a big reason why I got to play on LIV again this year, so I'm very thankful and grateful for Morocco and this tournament," said Vincent.
"Any time you're defending, it's a special week. That doesn't happen very often, so I'm really trying to enjoy and cherish it while also competing well."
The Zimbabwean also considers Morocco a special stop on the calendar, with the event's African setting giving it an added sense of familiarity.
“This is obviously African soil, so I love that part about it,” Vincent said. “I think this is one of the best courses that we get to play on the Asian Tour each year. It tests your game and challenges you in a lot of different ways.”
Vincent arrives in Rabat on the back of another strong LIV Golf campaign, highlighted by a fifth-place finish at LIV Golf Korea, fourth place at LIV Golf Mexico City and a tied-eighth result at MAADEN LIV Golf Virginia, alongside a string of additional top 20 finishes throughout the season.
Despite his success at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, he is approaching the week with a fresh mindset.
“Obviously, I’ve played the course really well in the past, and I’m trying to do something similar,” he said. “But it’s a new year, and I’d like to think I’m improving as a player and that my game is moving in the right direction.”
With a field featuring Major champions Sergio Garcia and Bubba Watson, along with many of the leading players from LIV Golf and the Asian Tour, Vincent knows there will be added attention on the defending champion. However, he remains focused on preparation rather than expectation.
“Yes, there is a little bit of pressure being the defending champion,” he said. “For me, I’m trying not to focus too much on that. I’m trying to prepare as best as I can and get ready for the tournament.”
For Vincent, the week also carries personal meaning, with his family, including his parents, alongside him in Morocco.
“I’ve got my whole family here this week supporting me, so there are a lot of reasons to be grateful and just enjoy the week.”
