DUBAI — She is charismatic, she is skilful, and she is good looking. If something else is needed to enhance the image of women's golf, Italian beauty Sophie Sandolo will be more than willing to do it.

For instance, she won't mind posing in glamorous outfits at one time to get the sport more exposure. In fact, Sandolo, regarded as one of the most colourful players on the Ladies European Tour, has done it all to get media attention.

"I've done it for fun. It's something I've thought about for a couple of years and I decided to go for it. Women's golf needs a new image," she said recently.

Players like Sandolo do spice up a tournament with their glamorous presence.

The 30-year-old LET ace will certainly be one of the most sought-after players when the first Dubai Ladies Masters gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club from October 26 to 29.

"It's nice to be known for looking good –- but I want to prove myself on the golf course too," said Sandolo, who considering her record this season, could pose a serious threat to the 126-player field, spearheaded by world number one Annika Sorenstam.

Of the 17 tournaments she has played so far on the Ladies European Tour, Sandolo, currently placed 34th on the Order of Merit, has done pretty well with three top-10 finishes and missing cuts only in three events, winning a total of euro 51,983.32 to take her career earning to euro 307,141.25 although without winning a tournament in 103 starts.

"In this day of hype and star power, the sport needs some colourful characters to sell the game better, and in Sophie, LET has an exciting product which clicks well with the fans," commented Mohammed Juma Buamaim, Vice-Chairman of Golf in Dubai, the promoters and organisers of the Dubai Ladies Masters.

Sandolo is excited about playing in Dubai.