INQUIRER Sports

SINGAPORE -- Annika Sorenstam will captain the international team in one of her final appearances before she retires as the Lexus Cup returns to Singapore this year, organizers said Thursday.

The 37-year-old Swede, who has won 72 LPGA titles, said it would be a bittersweet event as her remarkable career draws to a close.

"I am looking forward to captaining the Lexus Cup this year and the high quality of players that return year on year is a great testament that this event is growing in stature and attracting the best players today," she said.

"It is a bittersweet year for me as I step away from competitive golf and focus on other facets of my life that I want to accomplish such as getting married, starting a family, growing the game of golf, giving back to others."

Sorenstam, who has won an LPGA career-record $22 million, is expected to say a final goodbye in Dubai at the Ladies European Tour's Dubai Ladies Masters, which begins on December 10.

The Lexus Cup, which pits the best international players in the world against the best Asia has to offer, will be played just prior to this from November 28-30 at the Singapore Island Country Club.

Team Asia will see the return of sophomore captain Se Ri Pak.

The Korean golf icon led her team to a commanding win over Team International last year in Perth and she is hoping for the same result here.

"It was an amazing feeling to hoist the Lexus Cup trophy last year with my teammates and I am thrilled to be invited to be captain again this year," said Pak, who boasts 24 career LPGA victories including five majors.

"We will be looking to retain our title and extend our hold of the Lexus Cup so we hope all the fans come out to support us and catch some great golfing action."

The leading four Asian and International players from the ADT Official Money List will be picked for each team, followed by the top four Asian and International players from the World Golf Rankings.

The final four will consist of two captain's picks and two sponsor's exemptions.