Staff WriterThe Link Hong Kong Open is about to get a serious injection of star power. A stellar line-up of Major champions has signed up for this year’s edition, promising one of the strongest fields in the tournament’s 64-year history.
South Africans Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel, Germany’s Martin Kaymer, and Northern Ireland’s Graeme McDowell will all tee it up at Hong Kong Golf Club, Fanling, from 30 October to 2 November.
They’ll be joining two men who know a thing or two about Augusta National—Bubba Watson and defending champion Patrick Reed, both former Masters winners, who confirmed their spots last month.
The stakes are sky-high. A golden ticket awaits the winner: automatic qualification for the 2026 Masters Tournament and the 154th Open Championship. Throw in a world-class field of champions, and you’ve got a tournament shaping up to be a proper barnburner.
Watson’s Return to Familiar Turf
Double Masters champion Watson, who slipped into the Green Jacket in 2012 and 2014, is no stranger to Hong Kong. As captain of RangeGoats GC in the LIV Golf League, he’s already led his team at LIV Golf Hong Kong in both 2024 and 2025. Now, he’s back to make his second appearance on The International Series this season, having already pencilled in the International Series Philippines.
“As golfers, we all want to play against the best and Hong Kong will have a really strong field so, of course, everyone wants to be there,” Watson said. “With a spot at the Masters and a spot at The Open on the line, there is a lot at stake. There will be some tough competition and it should make for some pretty entertaining golf.
“The Hong Kong Open is always a player and fan favourite, and a stand-out event on the Asian Tour. I’m really looking forward to returning and playing in front of such incredible fans,” Watson added.
Oosthuizen Eyes Another Major Moment
Watson won’t be the only Green Jacket hopeful prowling Fanling’s fairways. Oosthuizen, skipper of Stinger GC, knows what it’s like to win on the biggest stage, having lifted the Claret Jug at The Open Championship in 2010 at St Andrews. He’s also finished runner-up in all four Majors, which says plenty about the size of his game.
“The biggest thing at a Major championship is patience – and, being so long in the game, that’s one thing I’ve learned. Never get down on yourself and never give up.” Oosthuizen added: “I was lucky enough to win The Open at St Andrews, and lifting the Claret Jug is as good as it gets.
I didn’t quite make it to the Green Jacket, but I’m eager for another shot at it. I haven’t played there for a few years. I love the course in Hong Kong, and I think it suits my game. It’s an amazing city, and now to have the chance to earn a spot into the Masters, it’s a great opportunity. I’m hopeful to come out on top.”
Schwartzel and Reed Bring the Firepower
Fellow South African Schwartzel—another Stinger GC man—knows exactly what it feels like to make Augusta dreams come true, having won the Masters in 2011. He’s back for another crack at what many call “Asia’s Major.”
“It’s an incredible opportunity, not just to play in the Hong Kong Open and the tradition that comes with it, but now to have a pathway into two of the biggest Majors, it’s what you dream of when you are a kid,” Schwartzel said.
“Winning the Masters and wearing the Green Jacket, that dream came true for me, and it’s one of the peak moments of my career. The more opportunities we can give players to chase that dream, is special.”
All eyes, though, will be on Patrick Reed. Last year, the American produced one of the most memorable rounds in tournament history—firing a third-round 59 on his way to a three-shot victory at the 2024 Link Hong Kong Open. It was the sort of fireworks display that Fanling still hasn’t stopped talking about.
A Tournament Open for All
In the spirit of the Link Hong Kong Open – Open For All theme, the organisers are throwing open the gates. Admission is free for the first two rounds on Thursday and Friday.
Weekend passes are HK$300 for both days or HK$200 per day. Fans aged 18 and under get in free all week when accompanied by a ticketed adult or with valid photo ID.
And if you think this field is already looking juicy, there’s more to come. Organisers have hinted at further big names being announced soon, adding even more star wattage to a tournament that’s already shining brightly on the Asian Tour calendar.
For the full lowdown, visit www.thehongkongopen.com. Tickets are available now at ticketflap.com/lhko2025.
