SJM Resorts announced yesterday that this year’s Macao Open golf tournament will be held at the Macau Golf and Country Club from today to Sunday, featuring world no. 46 Min Woo Lee and several top international players.
A press conference was held yesterday at the Macau Golf and Country Club, with the attendance of Sports Bureau (ID) President Luís Gomes, SJM Managing Director Daisy Ho Chiu Fung and representatives from the golf sector as well as this week’s key players.
Defending champion Min Woo Lee expressed his excitement: “I’m very happy to return to a course where I play well. I’m excited for the week.” He acknowledged the tough competition ahead: “I’ve got some good players next to me. Hopefully, it will be a good week.”
Local golfer Ngai Si, familiar with the Macau course, shared his goals: “I’ll do my best to qualify. The windy weather will be a challenge.” He noted that his experience helps with pressure: “I’ve played many tournaments, so I don’t feel pressured anymore.”
While John Catlin, the current leader of the Asian Tour Order of Merit, who had already secured a win at the Macau Golf & Country Club in March, expressed his eagerness: “It’s nice to return to a course where I’ve had success. I’m looking forward to the challenge, especially with the changes since Min Woo Lee last played. There are many great players, so I hope we all have a chance on Sunday.”
World no. 23 and 2023 Open Champion Brian Harman, making his Asian debut, expressed his enthusiasm about competing in Macau: “I’m super excited to be here. It’s nice to showcase my talents globally.”
Two-time Macao Open winner Scott Hend aims for a historic third title but acknowledged his current challenges: “It’s great to return, but my game and health aren’t at 100 percent. I’ll do my best and see if I get lucky.”
Thai star Phachara Khongwatmai, who finished third last year, shared his fondness for Macau: “Macau is my favourite place. I’m always happy here and hope to be at the top of the leaderboard this year.”
Top Greater Bay Area talent Ye Wocheng, who trains in Shenzhen, feels at home: “The grass in Macau is similar to Shenzhen’s, making it smooth for me to play.”
Members of the public can watch the tournament live for free, with registration for up to 10 tickets available at www.sjmmacaoopen.com.
Local golfer Ngai Si poses on the sidelines of yesterday’s press conference at the Macau Golf and Country Club.
This photo taken yesterday shows two players in the tournament practising. – Photos by Maria Cheang Ut Meng
