Golf’s rising stars prepare for Turkish Airlines Open

Press release

Published October 27th, 2015 - 08:29 GMT

Al Bawaba

Three of golf’s most exciting young players will be competing at the Turkish Airlines Open this week – with all of them looking to make their mark in the rising star of global golf destinations.

China’s Li Hao-Tong, South Korea’s Byeong Hun An and Matt Fitzpatrick from England will all be tackling the stunning Montgomerie Maxx Royal course – kicking off the final set of tournaments on the Road to Dubai.

Turkey is a fitting destination to showcase some of golf’s most exciting young players, as the country is making similar waves among the established golf destinations - with new courses and golfing experiences to challenge the very best in the world.

All three of the young rising stars competing in this year’s Turkish Airlines Open know a thing or two about challenging golf’s established order in a similar way. Earlier this month Matt Fitzpatrick won the British Masters 2015, his first professional triumph, and finished third in the Hong Kong Open this week.

Fitzpatrick said: “It was brilliant to win earlier this month and I really hope I can continue my form into the Turkish Airlines Open. I have heard so much about the brilliant golf in Turkey, so can’t wait to get out there and see what I can do!”

Byeong Hun An, who announced himself on the world golfing scene by winning the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth this year, is also looking to make an impact in Turkey.

An said: “It feels amazing to be part of a big group of golfers coming from South Korea and competing at the top of the sport. I have experienced how my country has grown as a golf destination and hear similar things are happening in Turkey. I can’t wait to find out for myself!”

Li Hao-Tong completes the set of rising stars playing at the Turkish Airlines Open next month, and after coming tantalisingly close to winning the Shenzhen International earlier in the year he is hoping to go one better in Turkey.

Li said: “I’m so excited to get to Turkey and play again against some of the best players on the planet. The other players on Tour have told me some great things about playing this tournament, and playing golf in this country. I’m really looking forward to getting going!”

The Turkish Airlines Open takes place between October 29 and November 1, with 78 players – also including Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke - competing for a prize fund of $7 million.

Background Information

Turkish Airlines

Turkey's "rising star", Turkish Airlines, began its’ journey back in 1933 with 5 planes. Today, Turkish Airlines boasts a fleet of 335 aircrafts (passenger and cargo) and continues that journey with the same excitement. With its growth figures placing the company among the leading airlines in the world, Turkish Airlines, with a momentous decision in 2013, made the biggest airplane purchase in the history of Turkish Civil Aviation.