Mike Lorenzo-Vera may only just be returning to competitive golf, but he’s feeling the weight of extra expectations at the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship this week.

The French golfer is making his third consecutive start on the DP World Tour after taking a six-month break to prioritise his mental health. His return came at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic earlier this month, and while it was an emotional comeback, this tournament holds a special place in his heart for another reason: Lorenzo-Vera now carries the Bahraini flag on his bag, a symbol of the strong bond he’s formed with the country over the past year.

Mike Lorenzo-Vera Bahrain Championship Flag

Mike Lorenzo-Vera

“This week is particularly meaningful to me because of the special relationships I’ve developed here,” he explained. “I want to perform well, and with that comes extra pressure. My heart is definitely racing a bit more than usual.”

Reflecting on the connections he’s built, Lorenzo-Vera shared how he first met HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, a son of Bahrain’s King, and how their bond grew after they discovered mutual ties to Biarritz, his hometown in France. “We began talking about that, and spent more time together last year. I also had the chance to see Shaikh Nasser’s victory in France, when he won the world title in long-distance horse racing,” Lorenzo-Vera recalled.

All these experiences have given him lasting memories, and he feels deeply grateful for the warm welcome he receives in Bahrain. “They’ve treated me so well whenever I’ve been here to practice or just relax,” he said. “As a token of appreciation, I decided to put the Bahrain flag on my bag.”

Lorenzo-Vera, who admits he still has a lot to learn when it comes to Arabic, is in a positive frame of mind following his 40th birthday on Tuesday. “The opening ceremony was amazing, and celebrating my birthday at a great restaurant just made it all the more special. It’s hard to complain!” he laughed.

Main Image: David Cannon / Getty Images