DEFENDING CHAMPION MIN WOO LEE HEADLINES SJM MACAO OPEN 2024
August 26, 2024 – The SJM Macao Open is proud to announce defending champion Min Woo Lee will be back to compete in the 2024 edition of the tournament, further solidifying the tournament’s status as one of the marquee tournaments on the Asian Tour calendar. The prestigious event, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Macau Golf and Country Club, will be held from 10 to 13 October 2024.
Lee’s performance at last year’s SJM Macao Open was nothing short of spectacular. The Australian star secured a two-shot victory over Thailand’s Poom Saksansin, marking his first title in two years. Lee set a new tournament record with a 30-under-par score across four days, just two strokes shy of the Asian Tour record.
Lee expressed his excitement about returning: “I’m thrilled to be coming back to the SJM Macao Open. Last year was an incredible experience, and winning with a record score was a highlight of my season. I have great memories of the course and the fantastic support from the fans. I’m looking forward to another amazing week in Macao and hope to defend my title.”
This year marks a significant anniversary for both the People’s Republic of China, which celebrates the 75th anniversary of its founding, and Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), which commemorates a quarter-century since reunification. Known for its vibrant culture and world-class hospitality, Macao is the ultimate destination for both sports and leisure, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern grandeur.
Building on a successful inaugural year as the title sponsor, and being the co-organizer this year, SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM) continues its pivotal role, underscoring its commitment to elevating Macao’s profile on the international stage. The partnership has been instrumental in enhancing the event’s stature, ensuring that the SJM Macao Open remains a highlight of the golfing calendar.
Ms. Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, expressed, “SJM is privileged to once again be the title sponsor and co-organizer for the second consecutive year. Sports tourism, characterized by its engaging, exciting, and participatory nature, not only draws international visitors from afar but also encourages them to return frequently to immerse themselves in the local community and partake in the spectacles. Therefore, SJM will continue to proactively orchestrate high-quality branded sports events, leveraging ‘Tourism + Sports’ synergy to establish a distinctive regional sports tourism ecosystem in Macao. With a deep-rooted history in golf, SJM is committed to dedicating our full efforts to this year’s event, ensuring it continues to grow from strength to strength.”
Since its inception, the Macao Open has been a cornerstone of the golfing calendar, hosted annually at the Macau Golf and Country Club. The tournament has consistently attracted top-tier talent, including Major winners Ernie Els, Nick Faldo, John Daly, and Vijay Singh, along with prolific global stars Miguel-Angel Jimenez, Branden Grace, Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Thongchai Jaidee, cementing its reputation as one of the top golf events in Asia. The 21st edition of the tournament promises to once again attract top talent from around the globe, competing for a prize fund of USD 1 million.
Mr. Luís Gomes, Acting President of the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, emphasized the significance of hosting the event: “This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland. Hosting the SJM Macao Open showcases Macao’s development and vitality, further promoting the construction of the ‘City of Sports’ and supporting Macao’s ‘1+4’ appropriately diversified economic development strategy. I would like to express my gratitude to SJM for their contribution to the tournament, as well as to all parties for their support and cooperation, which has ensured the smooth preparation of this event.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour, added: “The SJM Macao Open stands out as a flagship event on our tour, known for its competitive field and stunning location. We are grateful for the support of SJM, the Sports Bureau of Macao, the Macao Golf Association and IMG, which ensures the success and prestige of this tournament.”
Johnny Senna Fernandes, President of the Macao Golf Association, remarked: “The SJM Macao Open is a beloved event for both players and fans. Its longstanding history at the Macau Golf and Country Club speaks to the quality and prestige of the tournament. We are excited to continue this tradition and celebrate Macao’s 25th anniversary with another exceptional edition of the SJM Macao Open.”
Grant Slack, EVP & Managing Director, Golf Events of IMG, remarked: “The SJM Macao Open has firmly established itself as a premier event on the Asian Tour. IMG will continue to work closely with SJM, the Sports Bureau of Macao, the Macao Golf Association, the Asian Tour, to deliver a world-class experience for players and spectators alike. We are excited to welcome the golfing world back to Macao.”
