China Open Helps Cultivate Local Golf Talent and Promote Development in China
The Volvo China Open has played a key role in the development of golf in China, with the recent return of the DP World Tour marking a significant milestone for the sport in the country. Zhao Qin, chairman of the board of directors of the Volvo China Open, highlighted the importance of hosting world-class competitions in China to help local talent go global.
The Volvo China Open, founded in 1995 and upgraded to the European Tour in 2004, has held 16 events jointly certified by the DP World Tour. After a five-year hiatus, the event returned to the DP World Tour schedule this year, creating valuable opportunities for Chinese players to learn and compete on an international level.
Since its establishment, the Volvo China Open has produced six Chinese champions, including Zhang Lianwei, Wu Ashun, and Li Haotong, who have gone on to achieve success on the European Tour. These victories not only showcase the talent of Chinese golfers but also provide inspiration for aspiring players to break into the global market.
In addition to fostering local talent, the DP World Tour held in China has allowed golf-related practitioners to learn from the world‘s advanced experience, leading to the growth of men’s and women’s China Tours, as well as thriving youth and amateur competitions. The Volvo China Open, held in accordance with international standards, has set a benchmark for the industry and promoted the overall development of the sport in the country.
Furthermore, the Volvo China Open has implemented a pyramid competition system that covers all levels of players, from youth to amateurs to professionals, with the goal of helping Chinese golfers reach the world stage. As Zhao Qin emphasized, the ultimate intention of the Open is to support and nurture Chinese golfers as they strive for success on the global stage.
With the continued success of events like the Volvo China Open, the future of golf in China looks bright, with promising talents emerging and the sport gaining popularity among a new generation of players.