New Delhi: Ten days ago, Anirban Lahiri made the golf world sit up and take note when he claimed his maiden European Tour title after defeating Bernd Wiesberger to win the Malaysian Open by just one shot.

The stunning victory had propelled the golfer to a career high 37th place in the world rankings, and had also opened up the prospect of playing the Olympics next year. Lahiri's current ranking is 39th.

The rules at Rio would only allow golfers in the top 60 to play the Olympics, and as of now Lahiri remains the sole contender from India.

'The cut-off date for rankings has not been announced... we have to wait,' said Jaydeep Chitlangia, the president of the Indian Golf Union (IGU). 'However, Lahiri remains the hot favourite to take the spot,' he added.

But then, Lahiri is not unduly anxious about playing in Rio. 'It is still a long way to go... but the way I am playing now, I have a lot of confidence in myself. At the same time, I have to stay focused.

'I am taking things one at a time... this week I am concentrating on the Indian Open at the Delhi Golf Club. I want the title to stay in India and I want to add the trophy to my cupboard,' Lahiri said here on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old star golfer is a huge believer in the philosophy of ' karma'. 'I always try to do my best... the result is not in my hand. It's like the karma philosophy in Gita.

'The victory in the Malaysian Open taught me a lot. It was a lesson to learn to stop worrying and give your best,' Lahiri said.

In the Malaysian Open, Lahiri was not exactly the favourite on Sunday morning. Despite his 10-under-par on Saturday, Lahiri came into the fourth round still trailing leader Wiesberger by five shots. But a run of four birdies in his opening five holes saw the Indian turn up the heat on his rivals.

Lahiri was unable to keep up that pace on the back nine but a fantastic 40-foot birdie putt from off the green on the 17th changed the scenario in his favour.

In the Indian Open beginning Thursday, Lahiri is well aware the focus would be on him. 'I know there will be expectations... it happens with all top sportspersons... Despite the pressure, we have to play our own game.

'At the same time, I have my own expectations. And if I am satisfied with my result, I shall remain happy,' Lahiri said.