The Saudi Open, presented by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is set to commence today at the esteemed Riyadh Golf Club.
This momentous four-day event, representing the Asian Tour, will witness the participation of a diverse array of international golf stars from both the DP World Tour and the local Arab and Saudi Arabian golfing elites. Notably, reigning Saudi Open champion, Thai player Dinwit Boiponsop, will be among the luminaries competing for the title.
Joining him are prominent figures such as Henrik Stenson, Peter Olyan, and Haotong Li, all of whom harbour hopes of hoisting the coveted trophy.
Additionally, a contingent of 144 players from 33 countries around the world will be vying for glory.
The tournament will feature the involvement of seven players representing Saudi Arabia, including three professionals, as well as 13 Arab players who received invitations to compete alongside the world’s best, thus fortifying the sport’s growth in the region. In addition to the fierce competition on the course, the tournament encompasses a wide range of accompanying events and festivities throughout its duration.
These include various golf-related activities and a diverse array of segments, most notably live music sessions at sunset.
By offering such attractions, the organisers aim to provide fans and attendees with an opportunity to experience the seamless integration of sports, culture, and entertainment through the Bazaar and the dedicated Fan Zone, which are both tailored to accommodate families and their children.
In a related context, Peter Ohlin, a member of the Leaf golf team, is making his inaugural visit to Riyadh. The American player anticipates an exhilarating tournament characterized by low scores over the course of its four days.
Reflecting on his participation, Ohlin remarked: “I watched the Saudi Open 2023 on TV in December and followed the recent Aramco International Women’s Championship. I observed many impressive performances, but the outcome hinges on weather conditions and the influence of the wind. This is my first time in Riyadh, having previously visited Jeddah multiple times.
I am eagerly looking forward to this experience, especially after conversing with Saudi player Othman Al Mulla about the upcoming tournaments taking place throughout the kingdom. Such discussions underscore Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in fostering the development of this sport.”
Li Haotong, a four-time winner of the DP World Tour, has decided to participate in the Saudi Open, courtesy of the Public Investment Fund. The Chinese player’s decision stems from the burgeoning growth of golf in Saudi Arabia.
Haotong stated: “I like to explore new golf courses and visit uncharted territories. Therefore, I am tremendously excited about the launch of this tournament and deeply honoured to contribute to the game’s development to the fullest extent possible.”
The tournament’s inauguration was preceded by a Press conference featuring CEO Noah Alireza, who addressed the media and emphasised the significance of providing opportunities for Saudi and Arab players to showcase their talents in the Saudi Open.
Alireza expressed his satisfaction in welcoming all participants to the tournament, which originated as one of the Asian Tour events last year and now continues to flourish. He confidently predicted that the tournament’s duration would witness abundant triumphs, further elevating golf’s prestige at the Riyadh Golf Club.
Regarding Arab and Saudi participation, Noah Alireza stressed the tournament’s commitment to affording competitors – particularly the seven Saudi players and those from the Arab region - an opportunity to compete on an international stage alongside champions from the Asian Tour, live golf, and the DP World Tour. Alireza reaffirmed the organisation’s unwavering dedication to cultivating future Saudi or Arab champions, with aspirations of bestowing the tournament’s esteemed title upon them.
Concurrently with the championship competitions, the Fan Zone at the Riyadh Golf Club will be open from 1pm to 11pm today and tomorrow, and from 9am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available for purchase, starting at 50 Saudi riyals.
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