Patience and confidence boost Villegas at Masters

Whether you are the world's best golfer, a teen prodigy or even a heart-throb for female golf fans, it takes patience and experience to win a green jacket this week at the Masters.

That's how Colombia's Camilo Villegas, known for his looks more than his game until a pair of breakthrough triumphs last year, sees the challenge awaiting him and 95 rivals this week at Augusta National Golf Club.

"We all want to have that jacket and make history," he said. "We all have to be patient. Trust me, when you get out on the course nobody cares who you are. It's an individual sport. You've got to go out and take care of business."

The 27-year-old South American star has been doing that well lately, following his breakthough US PGA victory at the BMW Championship last year by defeating Sergio Garcia in a playoff to capture September's Tour Championship.

"I'm a lot more patient. I know my game a lot better," Villegas said. "It's just gaining experience. Just learning what works for you is key."

After missing the cut in his two prior Masters starts, Villegas has renewed confidence this time.

"I haven't played great. But you can't dwell on the past," Villegas said.

"I'm excited about this year. I'm a better player. I'm better prepared than my previous appearances. I know my way around. I just try to look at the best players in the world and try to learn from them."

Villegas has learned how the course will change from day to day, notably from the last practice session Wednesday ahead of Thursday's opening round.

"I was a little shocked my first year from Wednesday to Thursday," Villegas said. "More than the way you feel out there or the way you hit shots is the way you react mentally.

"I got on the first tee with a little doubt, a little negative energy, and that's never good. I'm going to get on the first tee this time with a positive attitude.

"We're going to play a different course on Thursday. We all know it's going to be totally different come the weekend. You have to be patient, take it one step at a time and try to adapt."

Wind and rain spoiled early practice plans for many players, giving an edge to those who know the layout and have already handled their preparations.

"Weather has been bad," he said. "Guys haven't had the chance to play too many practice rounds. But it's the same for everybody."