Spieth Commits to Sentosa Showpiece

Singapore: Player of the Year Jordan Spieth, the winner of two Majors in 2015, will be the star attraction at the 50th staging of January’s SMBC Singapore Open.
The 22-year-old claimed this year’s Masters Tournament and US Open, and recently triumphed in the Tour Championship to clinch the 2015 FedEx Cup. He was also runner-up in the PGA Championship, tied for fourth at The Open Championship and was named PGA Tour Player of the Year.
His performances this year ushered in a new era in the world game.
“Playing in the SMBC Singapore Open is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Spieth. “I’m very fortunate to play golf around the world and can’t wait to visit Singapore for the first time,” added Spieth, who was part of the United States team that claimed the Presidents Cup in Korea this month.
Enthusiastic galleries are expected when Spieth graces the Serapong Course at Sentosa Golf Club, a Golf Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
With a minimum prize purse of US$1 million, the SMBC Singapore Open will take place from January 28-31 and will be jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO).
Spieth’s inclusion in the field along with the backing of new title sponsor Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation will see the tournament return with a bang after a three-year absence.
He will be trying to add his name to a list of illustrious champions, including three-time winner Adam Scott of Australia, England’s Ian Poulter, Angel Cabrera of Argentina and Matteo Manassero of Italy, who triumphed in 2012.
“I know the SMBC Singapore Open is one of Asia’s leading events and I couldn’t be more excited to add it to my 2016 playing schedule,” said Spieth.
Takeshi Kunibe, SMBC’s President and CEO, said: “It is an honour to welcome Jordan Spieth to the first SMBC Singapore Open in 2016.
“We believe the participation of the most exciting golfer in the world today will open a new page in the great history of this event which will be reborn as the SMBC Singapore Open.”
The SMBC Singapore Open will feature the top 60 from the Asian Tour, top 60 from the JGTO, leading Singapore professionals and amateurs and invites including players from the top 50 in the world.