“I WILL BECOME WORLD NO. 1!”

I was 8 years old when I first said those words, and I said it with such determination my parents almost became a little embarrassed.

But truth is, as far back as I can remember, my mind has always been set on becoming a successful professional athlete. When walking to school with my twin sister, we often talked about this. Why become a doctor, lawyer, or teacher, when you could earn money playing hockey, soccer, or golf!?

During that time in my life, I think it was more the thought of “playing” through life that seemed tempting. Today I know a little better, and can assure that there is no time to “play around” if I want to compete with the best golfers in the world. But I am very happy, proud and thankful I’ve reached, and get to live my childhood dream.

How I fell in love with the game of golf will forever be a mystery though. As the temperamental, impatient and restless little girl that I was, it’s hard to see how it could be a good fit, especially as those traits are not very favorable when playing golf.

But maybe it was the challenge of conquering these characteristics that unconsciously drew me to golf. I have always loved challenges. Doesn’t matter if it’s about pulling off a tough shot, beating my personal best when I’m out running, or making that final putt in a Solheim Cup when my whole body feels like jelly, it’s the thought of mastering these challenges that inspires and motivates me, especially when its tough…because nothing beats that feeling!

My ultimate goal is to become World no. 1 at some point during my career, and ever since golf became part of the Olympics, I often wake up after a good night’s sleep dreaming about me standing on the Olympic podium with the Swedish national anthem playing out load.

However, being a good role model for children has also become an important vision for me. In the beginning of my golf career I struggled to view myself as a role model, but the more I’ve grown into that role, it has become very important to me.

Growing up, I know how much my idols meant to me, and what huge inspiration they’ve been. So I try to create and take opportunities to share my experience and give back to the coming generations. It just makes me happy to do that, and hopefully it can light up a moment for someone else too.

In the end I just want my life to be a fun journey, a journey that will put a smile on my face in 50-60 years time, and hopefully make me laugh a little to myself, when I recall all the memories.