As one of the selected members of Augusta National Golf Club, Sörenstam wears a green jacket when TT and Aftonbladet have a short chat with her on the Masters course.
The Swede, who won ten major titles during her career, has seen how Åberg has long fought for victory at Augusta over the past two years.
“Suit him best”
If he doesn't go all the way this year, it will be another time, predicts the now 55-year-old golf legend.
"Everyone who has seen him play knows that one day he will win, and it is probably this particular major that he will win. It suits him best," says Sörenstam.
He has length, feel, puts well. He's one of the greatest talents we've seen in a long time.
“It's so difficult”
After a dream start – Åberg was three under par after six holes – the Swede lost ground midway through the first round. The fast greens played several tricks on Åberg, and after a couple of costly short putt misses he finished the day with 74 strokes, two over par.
"You don't see how hilly it is on TV. But when you play here you really notice how undulating the greens are. It's so difficult," says Sörenstam.
As a member, she has already played Augusta National's legendary course several times this year. And she's been a fan of Ludvig Åberg.
"I was here playing with our son and then I was here with (Norwegian golf star) Viktor Hovland. Then he (Åberg) was here with a friend and said hello. But I don't know him personally, except that I, like everyone else, watch and cheer," says Sörenstam.
Åberg begins his second round at 3:43 p.m. local time in Sweden on Friday. He is seven strokes behind the leading duo: Sam Burns, USA, and reigning champion Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland.
Facts: US Masters standings
Ties after the first round:
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Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland, and Sam Burns, USA, both 67 strokes (–5).
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Kurt Kitayama, USA, Patrick Reed, USA, and Jason Day, Australia, all 69 (–3).
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Scottie Scheffler, USA, Xander Schauffele, USA, Justin Rose, England, and Shane Lowry, Ireland, all 70 (–2).
The Swedes:
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Ludvig Åberg, 74 (+2).
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Alex Norén, 77 (+5).
