International Series Philippines is set to make a spectacular debut in Manila with a marquee field headlined by Major champions Bubba Watson, Patrick Reed, Charl Schwartzel and Louis Oosthuizen.

The quartet will tee it up at Sta. Elena Golf Club from 23 – 26 October as The International Series lands in the Philippines for the first time, bringing world-class golf and the pathway to the LIV Golf League to one of Southeast Asia’s most passionate golf communities.

Paired with an elite playing field, the event will offer dynamic entertainment, from a headline concert and exclusive hospitality to atmospheric live music, gourmet dining, and immersive fan activities.

Two-time Masters champion and RangeGoats GC captain Watson brings hot form to the Philippines. The American finished T14 at this year’s Masters and posted a runner-up finish at LIV Golf UK among three top-10s on the League this season.

The left-hander, who memorably made a hole in one on his International Series debut at last year’s BNI Indonesian Masters, said: “This will be my first time playing in the Philippines and I’m really looking forward to it. Golf is global so getting to be involved when it is reaching new places is really cool to see. Meeting fans that are new to golf, and excited about it, is always inspiring to me. I really hope we can spark something special here and maybe even inspire the next generation of golfers.”

Ryder Cup star and 2018 Masters champion Reed comes into the tournament in good form, having notched up his first LIV Golf League victory in Dallas earlier this year.

In the Philippines Patrick Reed will be looking to win his second International Series title. Picture by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images.

The 4Aces GC player is no stranger to The International Series. The 35-year-old is defending champion at the Link Hong Kong Open, which takes place the following week.

He also finished runner-up to Carlos Ortiz at International Series Macau presented by Wynn earlier this season, and as the tournament was an official Open Qualifying event, the performance earned him a place in the field for The Open in Royal Portrush.

Reed said: “The International Series has given me an incredible opportunity to travel and immerse myself in new cultures around the world. It has also allowed me to compete against players from across Asia, who continue to raise their game through the experience gained at these high-profile events. I’m looking forward to playing in front of a new audience of golf and sports fans in the Philippines.”

Teeing off alongside Reed will be 2011 Masters champion Schwartzel. The South African also has momentum, highlighted by a recent T10 finish at International Series Morocco and five top-15 performances on LIV Golf, including a runner-up finish in Miami.

Joining him is Stinger GC teammate and compatriot Oosthuizen. The 2010 Open champion has also been in fine form on the LIV Golf League with two top-five finishes including a second place in Dallas. Last season he also recorded a runner-up finish at International Series Oman and a T3 at International Series Qatar.

Carrying the hopes of the nation is Miguel Tabuena, the highest-ranked Filipino golfer on the Asian Tour. Tabuena ranked second on the Asian Tour Order of Merit in 2023 and seventh in 2024. He is sure to attract a large following on course.

“It’s an honour to represent my country at the first-ever International Series event here,” said Tabuena. “I am very excited that The International Series is coming to Manila. I know how much this tournament can do for golf in the Philippines, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

International Series Philippines represents a significant milestone for the LIV Golf-backed series.

“Bringing The International Series to the Philippines is a moment of great pride,” said Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series. “We’re not only delivering a world-class field, but we’re also laying the foundation for long-term growth of the game here. With major champions like Bubba, Patrick, Louis, and Charl competing alongside local heroes like Miguel, fans are in for a truly special week of golf.”

The tournament marks the seventh of 10 elevated events on the Asian Tour calendar that provide players with a direct pathway to the LIV Golf League through its season-long rankings.

Tickets for International Series Philippines are available here.

Asian Tour member Kazuki Higa claimed his first title on the Japan Golf Tour in three years after winning the HANDA Explosion in the Summer tournament at the weekend, at Gozensui Golf Club.

He made a brilliant eagle to win on the second hole of a sudden-death play-off against fellow Japanese golfer Ren Yonezawa.

Higa had forced the play-off after making birdie on the 18th to tie Yonezawa, playing in the group ahead, on 30-under. The winner closed with seven-under-par 65, while Yonezawa returned 64 – helped by three birdies in the last four holes.

“It’s been a long time since I won; I had been struggling. On top of that, my caddie is a childhood friend, and one of my dreams was to win together with him. All of that emotion hit me at once,” said Higa, who is currently in eighth place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

“I’ve been chasing opportunities in Europe and Asia instead of focusing solely on Japan. I tried to make the most of every chance, but results didn’t come. There were times I felt broken, but I told myself I had to carry on. To finally win again gives me so much confidence and happiness.”

It is his seventh victory in Japan and puts him back on track on home soil. In 2022, he made headlines when he was victorious on four occasions and secured the money list title.

He tied for second in this year’s New Zealand Open presented by Sky Sport for his second best performance on the Asian Tour. His finest result came at the Shinhan Donghae Open in 2022, an event he won.

Lee Westwood and Sungjae Im have been unveiled as two of the star attractions at this year’s SJM Macao Open – which will take place at Macau Golf & Country Club, 16-19 October.

The announcement came at a press conference in Macau yesterday, when SJM also announced they will extend their title sponsorship for two more years.

Westwood claimed the title in 1999, a year after the event was launched, and will be bidding to win his 10th title in Asia.

Said the Englishman: “I am thrilled to be playing at the SJM Macao Open this October. I have fond memories from my win 26 years ago. The course always brings out the best in me, and I am looking forward to performing well this year and hopefully bringing home a second Macao Open crown.”

The former world number one beat American Andrew Pitts in a sudden-death play-off to win in Macau and also played in the event two years later. His most recent victory in Asia came at the Indonesian Masters in 2015 – an event he has won on three occasions.

Ms. See Lei, Acting Vice President of the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government (right), and Mr. David Shum, Director of SJM Resorts, S.A., pictured at the press conference.

Korean Im, a two-time champion on the PGA Tour who has made three Presidents Cup appearances, will be making his debut in the Macau event.

He said: “I am excited to be part of a very competitive field at the SJM Macao Open this year. I have heard excellent things about the SJM Macao Open and the city. Fellow players have told me about the beautiful but challenging course at Macau Golf & Country Club and I cannot wait to make my first trip to Macau a successful and enjoyable one.”

The tournament is jointly organised by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government (MSB), SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM) and IMG. It is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Macau Golf Association.

Ms. See Lei, Acting Vice President of the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, said: “Since its inception in 1998, the Macao Open has grown to become a hallmark championship on the Asian Tour, and an event that has come to epitomise Macau’s capability to host major international sporting events.

“The Sports Bureau will continue its mission to advance the development of Macau’s sports culture, and to ensure that visitors from around the world who come to watch some of the world’s top golfers receive the best experiences both on and off the course. Leveraging the unique synergy between sports and tourism, we aim to attract athletes and tourists to Macau through this sporting platform, and to bolster Macau’s reputation as a global centre of tourism and leisure.”

Ms. Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, added: “SJM has long been a dedicated supporter of both national and local sports development, and we remain firmly committed to advancing the integration of ‘Sports + Tourism’ in Macau.

“In 2023, we proudly assumed the title sponsorship of the Macao Open, supporting its revival through a three-year partnership. Over the past two editions, we have worked closely with the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, IMG, the Asian Tour, and the Macau Golf Association to elevate the tournament and bring new vitality. Today, we are pleased to announce that, building on this strong foundation, we will be extending our collaboration for two further additions, continuing our shared efforts to support the long-term development of golf in Macau.”

Sungjae Im will be making his debut in the SJM Macao Open. Picture by Getty Images.

Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour, added: “The SJM Macao Open is one of the premier events on the Asian Tour – boasting an outstanding reputation. The tournament was launched in the late 1990s and has been ever present on our schedule since. Our relationship is now set to continue further following today’s wonderful news that SJM has extended the partnership for two more years. We are truly grateful to them, the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, Macau Golf Association, IMG, and all the event partners.”

Joining Westwood and Im in the 144-player field to challenge for the coveted title will be defending champion Rattanon Wannasrichan, who delivered a wire-to-wire victory in 2024 to claim his second Asian Tour title. The 30-year-old Thai will look to emulate the achievement of Chinese golf pioneer Zhang Lianwei by successfully defending his title.

“I am delighted to announce my return to the SJM Macao Open. The tournament is one of my favorite weeks on the golfing calendar, and I am even more excited to be returning as the defending champion and to perform in front of the fans in Macau in October,” said Rattanon.

The Moutai Singapore Open will make its long-awaited return from 6 to 9 November 2025, marking a bold new chapter for one of Asia’s most historic golf tournaments. Held at The Singapore Island Country Club (SICC), where the event first teed off in 1961, the event perfectly blends cherished tradition with fresh momentum.

Now part of the Asian Tour’s elite International Series and co-sanctioned by the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), the tournament boasts a US$2 million prize purse and is set to feature the very best Asian Tour stars, players from the LIV Golf League and top local talent.

It is the ninth of 10 elevated events on the Asian Tour calendar that ultimately offer a pathway onto the LIV Golf League for the end-of-season International Series Rankings champion.

This year also marks the debut of Kweichow Moutai as title sponsor – a partnership that aligns the tournament’s rich heritage with the brand’s global prestige and cultural resonance.

“The Singapore Open has long been one of the most iconic events on the Asian Tour calendar, and we are thrilled to see it return with renewed purpose and global appeal,” said Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour.

Sadom Kaewkanjana celebrates after winning in 2022. Picture by Tharm Sook Wai/SPORTFIVE.

“With Kweichow Moutai’s support and the historic setting of SICC, we’re looking forward to delivering a tournament that honours the event’s storied past while embracing its exciting future.”

“We are proud to support the return of such a prestigious event that shares heritage and excellence. The Singapore Open is a natural fit for us, and we are delighted to help elevate the tournament for players and fans alike,” added the spokesperson of Kweichow Moutai.

Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series, said: “The Moutai Singapore Open is a welcome addition to The International Series schedule, and this return to the Asian golfing heartland of Singapore is another important statement as we continue to grow our brand across established and emerging golf markets.

“Like all our tournaments, the Moutai Singapore Open offers playing opportunities to the best in the region, as well as emerging talent, and this can only help to strengthen the growing global golf ecosystem by further enabling the development of the game within this key market and important region for the future of golf.”

Sadom Kaewkanjana Returns to Defend His Crown

Leading the international charge is Sadom Kaewkanjana [main picture], who won the last edition of the Singapore Open in 2022. Since then, the Thai star has continued to grow on the global stage and also made headlines with a personal detour into monkhood in his home country.

Earlier this season, Sadom claimed a victory at the Kolon Korea Open – his third Asian Tour title and first in three years – which earned him a spot at the Open Championship. At Royal Portrush, he carded an impressive first-round 68, highlighted by an eagle and a 40-foot birdie putt. He currently sits third on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Singapore’s Best to Take on the World

Ten of Singapore’s top golfers, including both seasoned professionals and promising amateurs, will compete in this year’s field. Their inclusion is based on Order of Merit standings, global rankings, and national nominations. One spot has also been reserved for Harry Takis, the 2025 Singapore Open Amateur Championship winner.

For the amateurs, competing in the Moutai Singapore Open serves as crucial preparation ahead of the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand in December, providing competitive exposure on home soil.

“The return of the Singapore Open after three years is a significant development for the sport in Singapore. It gives our local professionals and amateurs a chance to test themselves against the best and provides the perfect build-up to the Southeast Asia Games later this year,” said Tan Chong Huat, President of the SGA.

“The Singapore Open also reinforces the appeal of golf in Singapore as it continues to play host to several high-profile golf tournaments, including the HSBC Women’s World Championship, LIV GOLF, Porsche Singapore Classic and World Amateur Team Championships.”

Matt Kuchar was the champion in 2020. Picture by Paul Lakatos/SPORTFIVE.

The Return of ‘Beat the Pro’

Adding to the tournament buzz is the return of the popular ‘Beat the Pro’ challenge – an interactive par-3 experience during the tournament where amateurs test their skills against the professionals.

In past editions, young local stars like Brayden Lee and Troy Storm stepped up to thrill crowds and showcase Singapore’s emerging talent. This year’s challenge, played on one of the signature par-3 holes on The New Course (Millennium & Peirce), promises more unforgettable moments and an exciting connection between fans and the game.

“We are honoured to welcome the return of the Singapore Open to The Singapore Island Country Club, this time at our The New Course. While the championship’s legacy with SICC began at our Bukit Course in 1961, this exciting new chapter reaffirms our long-standing partnership with one of Asia’s most prestigious tournaments. With a world-class course set-up and engaging fan experiences, we look forward to delivering an unforgettable event for both players and spectators,” said Ian Roberts, General Manager of The Singapore Island Country Club.

More Than a Tournament

In the lead-up to the event, fans can expect a rich calendar of community engagement activities, including lifestyle events and public activations. These are designed to bring the spirit of the Moutai Singapore Open into the city and build excitement across Singapore.

“This year, we’ve placed a strong focus on deepening our connection with the community, not just through elite golf, but by creating experiences that make the Singapore Open accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We want this tournament to be a true celebration of sport, culture, and community,” added Cho.

As the tournament returns to its roots at SICC, the Moutai Singapore Open stands as a celebration of history, homegrown talent, and elite competition, where the past meets the future.

The Moutai Singapore Open will be open to the public, free of charge. More details on ticket registration and spectator activities will be shared in the coming weeks.

Tomoyo Ikemura is clearly mirroring his fine Asian Tour form on the Japan Golf Tour.

The 29-year-old won the Richard Mille Charity Tournament, at Noto Country Club, on Sunday to claim his third title on the Japan Golf Tour.

The Japanese golfer, who tied for second in the Smart Infinity Philippine Open this year and is currently 34^th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit (OOM), fired a brilliant bogey-free eight-under-par 64 to finish on 24-under and beat countryman Riki Kawamoto by two shots.

Kawamoto had led the tournament on each of the first three days and closed with a 69.

Ikemura started the final round three shots behind Kawamoto but stormed through with a brilliant back nine. He made birdies on 10 and 13, eagled the par-five 14^th, and carded more birdies on the 16^th and 17^th.

Tomoyo Ikemura finished joint second at the season-opening Smart Infinity Philippine Open. Picture by Jason Butler/Asian Tour.

Said the 29-year-old: “Around the 13th tee, I checked the leaderboard and saw that Riki [Kawamoto] was pulling away on his own. The final group wasn’t making much of a move—it was just Kawamoto. I thought, ‘he’s really enjoying his round’. I was at 19-under along with Ren [Yonezawa], and we were talking about how one of us might be able to challenge him. Then I started sinking more birdie putts, and the momentum shifted.”

He held his nerve to par the final two holes, crediting his strong finish to improved stamina.

“At last year’s Japan Open, I was leading until the final day but couldn’t close it out. Since last year, it’s been a recurring issue where I’m in a good position going into the final day but can’t extend my lead. So, for the second half of the season, I started running and spoke with my trainer about incorporating aerobic workouts while monitoring my heart rate. It was all to build stamina. I think that’s really helped,” said Ikemura, who last won in Japan in three years ago.

Last year he placed 53^rd on the Asian Tour’s OOM, having secured the 35^th and final card at Qualifying School at the start of the season.

The Asian Tour launched Inside the Ropes today – an exciting new digital newsletter and e-magazine that will allow fans to regularly stay up-to-date with all the action.

To be distributed on a monthly basis and built around unique content, it will feature the latest news and results, plus carry features, Q&As, and the best social media posts in ‘Scroll the Green’.

There is also a large section on the Asian Development Tour, the Asian Tour’s feeder circuit that primes the region’s next generation of stars.

It is the first time the Tour has produced such a comprehensive monthly publication and is in line with its digital-first strategy – a strategy that resulted in the launch of the Tour’s first Digital Media Hub recently.

This month’s edition leads with a story on Scott Vincent’s victory in the International Series Morocco in July [main picture], which saw him return to the top of the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

There are previews on the schedule and the Qualifying School and also a Q&A with the brilliant Thai golfer Gunn Charoenkul.

Please enjoy the inaugural edition, which you can visit here.

LIV Golf, the global golf league energising the sport through team competition and innovative fan experiences, has officially announced the return of LIV Golf Singapore presented by Aramco at Sentosa Golf Club for the 2026 season.

The fourth edition of the popular event will take place from March 13-15, 2026, with early bird tickets now available for purchase. This exclusive window offers fans the first opportunity to secure Club 54 hospitality tickets and three-day grounds passes to a festival of world-class golf, live music, and family-friendly experiences.

The 2026 event will once again bring 54 of golf’s biggest stars to Sentosa Golf Club’s Serapong Course, consistently voted Asia’s best golf course and winner of World’s Best Golf Course at the 2023 World Golf Awards. Following a remarkable event in 2025, Joaquin Niemann of Torque GC [main picture] will look to defend his individual title in Singapore, while Sergio Garcia and his Fireballs GC will aim to repeat their success at Sentosa.

Sergio Garcia of Fireballs GC celebrates with teammates after winning the team title at LIV Golf Singapore last year. Picture by Thananuwat Srirasant/Getty Images.

Joining Niemann will be a host of international stars including Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC), Brooks Koepka (Smash GC), Phil Mickelson (HyFlyers GC), Cameron Smith (Ripper GC), Dustin Johnson (4Aces GC), Jon Rahm (Legion XIII), and many more. The LIV Golf field is comprised of 14 major champions with a combined 28 major championships, bringing many of the sport’s biggest names back to Singapore once again.

“It’s an honour for Sentosa Golf Club to host LIV Golf Singapore for the fourth consecutive year,” said Andy Johnston, General Manager and Director of Agronomy at Sentosa Golf Club. “The return of this world-class tournament is a testament to Singapore’s growing stature as a global sporting destination. It’s another fantastic moment for golf in Singapore and we’re proud to once again welcome the world’s best players to The Serapong, showcasing the golf course to fans both locally and around the world.”

LIV Golf Singapore presented by Aramco is the fifth global stop already confirmed for the 2026 season, joining a growing roster of events that includes Adelaide (February 13–15), South Africa (March 20–22), Mexico City (April 17-19), and UK by JCB (July 24–26). With new and returning venues still to be unveiled for the 2026 schedule, LIV Golf continues to deliver on its mission to bring innovative, fan-focused events to destinations throughout North America, Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

The road to the 2026 Asian Tour via the Qualifying School has been laid with the Tour releasing the dates and venues today.

Six First Stage events will be staged between October and December – including a first visit to Morocco. The Final Stage, arguably the ultimate pressure test of tournament golf, will return to Lake View Resort & GC, Hua Hin, Thailand, from 17-21 December.

Through the valued support of the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation and Association Trophée Hassan, Royal Dar Es Salam, recent host of the International Series Morocco, will stage the opening First Stage event (Section A) from 21-24 October. Its Red Course was used for The International Series event in July, won by Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent, while the Blue Course will provide the examination in October. It will mark the first time the Asian Tour has visited Africa for the Qualifying School and reflects the region’s huge interest in playing in Asia.

Section B will cater for a similar appetite in the United States, by returning to Soboba Springs GC in California, from 4 – 7 November.

Thailand will then welcome the ensuing four First Stage tournaments. Section C will be hosted by Grand Prix GC, in Kanchanaburi, from 2 – 5 December, with Pattana Sports Club in Chonburi staging Section D over the same dates.

Section E will head to Phoenix Gold Golf Bangkok, from 9 –12 December, played simultaneously with Section F which will also be played at Grand Prix GC.

All First Stage events will be played over 72 holes with the leading 18% of the field advancing to the Final Stage.

Julien Sale claimed the Smart Infinity Philippine Open a month after graduating from Qualifying School. Picture by Jason Butler/Asian Tour.

The Final Stage will be contested over five rounds with a maximum field of 240 players. The leading 140 players and ties after 36 holes will qualify for rounds three and four, with a further cut after 72 holes to the leading 70 players and ties, who will then play the final round. At the conclusion of the final round the top 35 players will secure Asian Tour membership for the 2026 season.

Entries for the Qualifying School open on Friday, 25 July.

Said Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO, Asian Tour: “The Asian Tour Qualifying School is not just five rounds in December but a three-month push to earn playing rights on the Asian Tour.

“It’s an exciting and integral part of the success of the Asian Tour. We are delighted Royal Dar Es Salam will raise the curtain this year and help expand the School’s footprint to Africa, where the game is flourishing. Over 650 competitors entered the Qualifying School last year, and it’s a number that continues to grow.

“There is simply nothing like the pressure-cooker atmosphere of the School, particularly at the business end of the cut-throat final stage.”

Japan’s Takumi Murakami finished head of the class in 2025 [main picture], finishing one in front of Korean Kyungnam Kang. Kang’s compatriot Doyeob Mun, who recorded a brilliant victory in the GS Caltex Maekyung Open this year, claimed third.

In a dramatic finish to secure the 35^th card, Thailand’s Charng-Tai Sudsom birdied his final two holes to fire a brave 65 to finish on 10 under and avoid an 11-man sudden-death play-off for the final place.

The opportunities from the Qualifying School were highlighted at the opening event of the 2025 Asian Tour season, with Julien Sale from France winning the Smart Infinity Philippine Open in his first start on the Tour one month after graduating from Lake View Resort & GC.

Please find full details of the Qualifying School here.

Scottie Scheffler claimed his first Open Championship on Sunday after a commanding four-stroke victory over fellow-American Harris English.

Scheffler closed with a three-under-par 68 at Royal Portrush Golf Club, in Northern Ireland, to finish on 17-under. Harris came in with a 66, while the previous week’s Genesis Scottish Open winner Chris Gotterup from the United States was a further shot back in third.

American Wyndham Clark shared fourth place alongside England’s Matt Fitzpatrick and Haotong Li from China. Rory McIlroy’s bid for a famous victory on home soil ended with the Northern Ireland golfer sharing of seventh with defending champion Xander Schauffele from the United States and Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre.

Said Scheffler, who was seven ahead at one point on the last day: “This was, I felt like, one of my best performances mentally.”

Scottie Scheffler lifts the Claret Jug at The Open. Picture by Oisin Keniry/R&A/R&A via Getty Images.

The 29-year-old  is only the fourth player to win The Open, the Masters and PGA Championship before 30, joining legends Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tiger Woods.

It is his second major tournament victory this year, following his dominant result at the PGA Championship.

Three events on the Asian Tour are part of the Open Qualifying Series: The national Opens of New Zealand and Korea, plus the International Series Macau presented by Wynn.

Seven members of the Asian Tour competed in this year’s tournament.