Willett lays down foundations before baby's arrival

After winning the Dubai Desert Classic on Sunday with a fearless performance, the Hackenthorpe golfer quickly flew home to be with pregnant wife Nicole.

With the baby due in the spring, Willett had targeted a strong start to the year to give his pushes for the Olympics and Ryder Cup a real grounding.

Winning the Dubai Desert Classic has moved him to 13th in the world rankings from 20th and saw him climb to third in the early European order of merit.

He has chosen to miss the Tshwane Open in South Africa this weekend, something he will repeat several times before his child is born.

While caring for his wife is his priority during time away from competition, the 28-year-old also puts plenty of work into his game.

“I had a good week back home before Dubai but sometimes it doesn’t quite carry forward,” Willett said.

“It was good to come because the feeling stayed really good and strong all week.

“I did some good work with the Callaway guys last week, just trying to get things really nailed on.

“It’s about having a really good push before Nic gives birth.”

Willett will return to action in the Maybank Championship in Malaysia next weekend before competing in the United States throughout March, culminating with the WGC Dell Matchplay in Austin, Texas..