Patrick Reed and Bubba Watson will headline the US$2 million Link Hong Kong Open, the eighth stop on the Asian Tour’s International Series, from October 30 to November 2 at Hong Kong Golf Club.
Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, returns as defending champion after his spectacular 59 in the third round last year propelled him to a three-shot victory at 22-under-par.
Bubba Watson.
Watson, a two-time Masters winner, makes his first appearance in the event. The Range Goats GC captain is familiar with Fanling, having led his LIV Golf side there twice before, but this will be his first crack at the Open title.
The winner this year will secure coveted invitations to both the 2026 Masters and The Open, following a landmark decision by Augusta National and The R&A to recognise the championship as a qualifying pathway.
Taichi Kho – Asian Tour
With hometown star Taichi Kho and a strong Asian Tour contingent drawing local support, it is Reed and Watson who bring the major-winning pedigree to one of Asia’s most historic tournaments.
First played in 1959, the Hong Kong Open is the region’s longest-running international sporting event and remains one of its most prestigious.
Hong Kong Golf Club captain Andy Kwok said: “We are all set for four magnificent days of action, as the historic Link Hong Kong Open continues to grow in prestige on the international stage.
“To be selected as one of only a handful of pathway events reflects the rich heritage of our Club and the 65-year-old championship, but also Fanling’s global reputation as one of golf’s foremost tournament venues. We very much look forward to seeing the fans come out in force to support our Hong Kong players and watch some of the most exciting players in the game.”
“The International Series is all about providing players with opportunity, and a pathway to elite-level golf,” said Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series. “This year’s edition of the Link Hong Kong Open is the perfect example of our ethos. With the promise of vital rankings points in the race for a LIV Golf spot as well as a pathway to two majors for the champion, we look forward to another thrilling edition.”
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