The “SJM Macao Open” will return from October 15 to 18 to the Macau Golf & Country Club with a US$1 million (8 million patacas) prize purse, featuring 2016 Open champion Henrik Stenson and two-time PGA Tour winner Sungjae Im among a star-studded field, according to a press conference by the Sports Bureau (ID) at Grand Lisboa Palace in Cotai yesterday.
The tournament will feature a 144-player field comprising established champions and rising talents.
Addressing the press conference, Acting Sports Bureau President See Lei Si Leng said that the tournament has become one of Asia’s leading golf events while helping showcase Macau internationally. “SJM Macao Open has become one of Asia’s most representative and influential international golf events”, Lei said, adding that this year’s edition will strengthen community engagement by introducing golf to more age groups and incorporating cultural elements, including cultural and creative product booths.
Stenson said in a video message that he was looking forward to making his local tournament debut. “I am delighted to be coming to the vibrant city of Macau for the first time to compete at the SJM Macao Open this October”, he said, adding that he cannot wait to experience the course for himself, and “hopefully” see his name amongst the greats on its roll of honour.
Im, who finished among the top 10 last year, said he hopes to improve on that result while revisiting the city. “I had a top-10 finish last year and hope to do even better this time around. I really enjoyed my time off the course in Macau last year with the warm welcome and great hospitality provided by SJM”.
Returning to defend his title is Germany’s Dominic Foos, who staged a comeback from six shots behind to win last year’s tournament in a sudden-death playoff. Moreover, Chinese golfing legend Zhang Lianwei, a two-time Macao Open champion, also praised the tournament’s significance. “The Macao Open will always have a special place in my heart and I consider it my home tournament” Zhang said.
In addition, China’s rising star Sampson Zheng Yunhe and local golfer Ma Kaijun, who earned an invitation as the top Macau finisher at last year’s event, have also confirmed their participation. The organisers also announced that the SJM Macao Open Qualifier will return in September, continuing to provide regional players with a pathway into the main tournament.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the press conference, Zhang said his goal is to continue competing after turning 60 while chasing a third Macao Open title. “I have won twice, and I want to win one more time. For that, I will do my best”, Zhang said, adding that he also reiterated his commitment to supporting young golfers, noting that he has funded youth development for years through charitable donations. Zhang encouraged aspiring players to develop independence and a strong mindset, describing golf as a “lonely sport” where athletes must learn to motivate themselves.
Admission to this year’s tournament will once again be free, and members of the public can register for up to four complimentary tickets through the tournament’s official website at www.sjmmacaoopen.com.
Chinese golfing legend Zhang Lianwei speaks to the media on the sidelines during yesterday’s “SJM Macao Open” at Grand Lisboa Palace in Cotai. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
