World-class players set for Saudi open golf clash

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The highly anticipated Saudi Open golf Tournament, presented by the Public Investment Fund, is set to showcase a stellar lineup of international golf stars.

Set to take place from April 17th to 20, this prestigious event will captivate golf enthusiasts with its world-class participants, including renowned golfer Henrik Stenson and five of his esteemed colleagues.

Adding to the excitement, several notable players from the DP Tour, including four-time winner Rafa Cabrero Bello, will be present, making this tournament a true spectacle featuring both toptier competitors and Asian Tour stars.

As the ninth edition of the tournament approaches, it takes on a new dimension by becoming a fully Asian event.

The previous edition, held in December 2023, witnessed Thai star Dinwit Puriponsop claim the championship title.

Dinwit, who emerged as the victor, will be seeking to defend his title in this year’s tournament, which returns to the vibrant city of Riyadh.

The previous edition, presented by the Public Investment Fund, marked a significant milestone as the tournament transitioned into an all-Asian event. Dinwit’s remarkable performance, finishing three shots ahead of the 2016 Open Championship winner Henrik Stenson, showcased the caliber of talent on display.

Dinwit has expressed his determination to successfully defend his title as the Asian tour resumes following a five-week break in the Saudi capital. Anticipated to build upon its past successes, the upcoming tournament promises thrilling golf action for fans eager to witness live sporting excellence.

Notably, the inclusion of Andy Ogletree, Peter Ohlin, David Puig, and Eugenio Chacara, alongside Mavericks captain David Puig and his former European Ryder Cup teammate Cabrero Bello, adds further excitement to the Riyadh tour.

Among the star-studded participants, David Puig, who secured victory at the season-opening Malaysian Open, currently leads the Asian tour’s order of merit.

He is closely followed by John Catlin from the United States, the recent winner of the international series in Macau presented by Wen.

The presence of DP World Tour stars and former European Ryder Cup players Rafa Cabrera Bello and Thorbjorn Olesen further enhances the tournament’s prestige.

In line with its commitment to promoting inclusivity, Golf Saudi Arabia has invited local Saudi and Arab golfers to compete alongside international professionals, ensuring a diverse and competitive field. This blend of talent is expected to produce intense competition, especially with the return of 2016 championship winner Henrik Stenson, who finished second in last year’s final round with an impressive score of 65. Stenson is determined to claim victory this time and lift the coveted trophy.