Annika Sorenstam has signed an agreement to design a new 18-hole project, the Olivion Golf Resort, in Belek, Turkey. Olivion is Annika's first course design project in Europe and ninth worldwide. The project is currently in the design stage and will feature a spectacular, world class practice facility.

The Olivion Golf Resort is located near the beach of Belek, just 45 minutes from Antalya. Turkey is becoming a popular tourist destination as the golf courses and beaches are attracting people from all over the world and Belek, in particular, is one of the centers of Turkey's tourism industry.

"Venturing into Europe to design a new course is especially exciting," said Annika. "I’ve had the opportunity to play some of the best courses the world and I enjoy that I can share my passion for the game by designing courses that all ages and skill levels can enjoy."

Annika is visiting the site this week to walk the course area and work with developers to review all elements on the golf course’s design. Annika and Stan Eby of European Golf Design have begun routing the course and firming up other elements, including bunkering and greens positioning. Construction is due to start in the spring of 2011 and the course will open for play during 2012.