Nici, how old were you when you started playing golf?
When I was three years old, I took my first swings with my grandfather at Margna Golf in Sils. The clubs were bigger than me.
Was it love at first sight?
You could say that. I never played as often as I did during my time at nursery and primary school in Sils. Back then, I practised almost every day at lunchtime and after school. The many ‘chip matches’ in particular paid off.
Did you take golf lessons or did you teach yourself most things?
During my childhood, I was fortunate enough to train with some great golf pros who gave me a solid understanding of the swing and the game. I started with Richard Foreman, then trained with Peter Rishworth between the ages of 10 and 14, and finally switched to Marcos Moreno.
How many club championships have you won?
I remember well that I won the Maestraunza in Samedan in 2006 and 2007, which was very special for me. I've won the Maestraunza at the Engadin Golf Club three or four times, I think. I'm not quite sure. In any case, there are some big names like Claudio Petrini and Ueli Lamm who have won much more often.
Is there one victory that means more to you than the others?
I remember my first victory very well and it will probably always be the most special one. Back then, I played a completely unexpected 68 in the final round and won. I can still remember many of the shots from that round and have never played so well in Samedan again.
You have been living abroad for 10 years. You are usually in Switzerland for the Maestraunza. Is that a coincidence?
It's actually no coincidence. I love summer in the Engadin, but unfortunately I only manage to spend 4-6 weeks there during the golf season, and the Maestraunza is the golfing highlight of my year.
What was special about the Maestraunza 2025?
Apart from the somewhat crazy weather, good atmosphere and fast greens, I finally realised that I'm no longer one of the youngest players. It's cool to see that we have such strong juniors in the club.
Franco Moreno Steger won in the junior category. Did you give him a few tips?
I hope Franco will give me a few tips soon!
Franco is already winning lots of tournaments in a young age. Is he the next Nici Küchel?
He actually reminded me of myself, but I wasn't as strong technically as Franco. His swing is already very athletic and he plays great golf. My strength was mainly my short game. Let's see how long I still have a chance against him.
What are your own goals in golf?
Actually, I've always dreamed of winning the Engadin Amateur Championship, but the level gets better every year... So it doesn't look to good for me (laughs).
