Stenson and Sörenstam strike out at Vallda for gender equality

- If we look at golf, we have had great successes on both the women's and men's side over the years and that is something we want to continue with.

Annika and I are passionate about the next generation to be able to inspire them, says Henrik Stenson about why the competition at Vallda is important.

Sörenstam also believes that it is important that she and Henrik give back to golf.

- This is a way to say thank you to golf and to grow the next generation, says Sörenstam, who in addition to leading the unique competition will also play in the same ball as Sörenstam together with former Ryder Cup captain Thomas Björn.

- It will be a little more talk and more social than at regular competitions, but it will be really fun, says Stenson about the gaming company.

Sörenstam believes in fair competition

Much of the talk before the competition has been about how to create as fair conditions as possible.

- The biggest challenge is of course to find such a fair "setup" on the track that everyone can be competitive.

That it is fairly even in the number of boys and girls who manage the cut and are also there, then you have succeeded, says Henrik Stenson.

The course is supposed to be played 13 percent shorter for the ladies are the men.

- It sounds reasonable, I think.

But it's not just about the difference in length.

We know that it has to do with how much spin you put on the ball (the men have an advantage) and the ball field, how to get towards the greens.

But I think the basis is right and then you have to change a little during the week if needed, says Sörenstam about the intended difference for the ladies and gentlemen in the competition.

No real comeback

Annika Sörenstam, who competed against the men on the PGA Tour 18 years ago, has reached the age of 50 and actually finished already in 2008. But in February, she made her first competition since then when she passed the qualifying limit on the LPGA Tour in Florida.

But even if she now points up again, it is not a real comeback.

The goal is to play the US Senior Women's Open in July ...

- No, no, this is enough.

I feel it, says Sörenstam.

- When it comes to swing and length, it is a completely different level today.

I have had to accept that even though it is a little difficult sometimes, laughs Sörenstam.

- My goals are different than they were about 18-19 years ago, says Sörenstam, who, however, will not close the door for more senior competitions next year if it goes well in the US Senior Women's Open.

Weak Stenson must perform

For Stenson's part, this competition is not just about fronting a historic ladies' and men's competition but also a hunt for form, which has been doubtful for a long time now.

- If we want to go to Tokyo, we need a good result either this week or next week in the US Open.

That's where the hours start to count.

And as for the Ryder Cup, it's high time to start showing progress for captain (Padraig) Harrington if you want to be part of those discussions.

That is why we train and toil and hope that we can reverse the trend soon, says Stenson.