The Singapore Open tees off at Sentosa Golf Club with a strong Indian contingent and added stakes — two spots in The Open Championship up for grabs.
A total of 11 Indians are in the field for the 57th edition, part of The International Series, as players chase both the $2 million prize purse and qualification for the 154th Open Championship.
Karandeep Kochhar arrives as one of the form players, having already recorded top-five finishes this season.
“This is one tournament I really look forward to,” Kochhar said. “It’s an amazing golf course and one of the best we play all year.”
He added: “It’s a tough track and quite long, but the conditions are incredible. Rest and recovery will be important because it’s going to be a very hot week.”
Kochhar is joined by a strong Indian lineup that includes Gaganjeet Bhullar, SSP Chawrasia, Jeev Milkha Singh and Shiv Kapur, along with former winners Ajeetesh Sandhu and Rashid Khan.
The younger group — Pukhraj Singh Gill, Sachin Baisoya, Shaurya Bhattacharya and Shubham Jaglan — adds depth to the challenge.
At the top end of the field, International Series Japan winner Travis Smyth headlines after a whirlwind week that saw him travel from LIV Golf Mexico to Singapore.
“I slept on the floor of the lounge for about five hours,” Smyth said of his journey. “Feel great.”
The Australian leads both the Asian Tour Order of Merit and International Series rankings, making him one of the favourites despite the fatigue.
The field also features global names including Lucas Herbert, Peter Uihlein and Jazz Janewattananond, ensuring a strong international test.
What it means: A big week for the Indian contingent, with Major qualification adding extra incentive.
What’s next: Early positioning will be key on a demanding Sentosa layout, where conditions and heat could play a decisive role.
Photo – Asian Tour
