Asian Tour Set to Return to India in 2025 with International Series Event

Asian Tour Set to Return to India in 2025 with International Series Event

The Asian Tour is poised to make a grand return to India in 2025, bringing one of its prestigious International Series (IS) events to the country. This exciting development was hinted at during the International Series England at Foxhills Golf Club, where Asian Tour officials expressed their enthusiasm for a return to the Indian market.

Rahul Singh, Head of International Series, confirmed that advanced talks are underway with a golf course and a sponsor. He emphasized that the Tour is committed to bringing an IS tournament to India next year, but stressed the importance of securing all necessary contracts before making an official announcement.

India remains a crucial market for the Asian Tour, with a significant number of Indian professionals holding Tour memberships. However, the formation of an association between the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and the DP World Tour has reduced the number of Asian Tour events in India.

Despite these challenges, the Asian Tour is determined to return to India in a sustainable and commercially viable manner. Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner of the Asian Tour, stated that the Tour is not interested in funding tournaments on its own. Instead, it seeks partnerships with local sponsors and venues to ensure the long-term success of IS events in India.

The proposed LIV Golf schedule for 2025 will also play a role in the Asian Tour’s plans. The Tour has strategically scheduled IS events close to LIV tournaments and in nearby countries to attract top players from the Saudi Arabia-backed league.

Singh acknowledged the importance of LIV Golf to the Asian Tour’s strategy. He emphasized that the partnership provides playing opportunities for LIV members and contributes to the growth of the IS.

The remaining six IS events will form an exciting conclusion to the Asian Tour season, culminating in the $5 million PIF Saudi International. This tournament will crown both the International Series Ranking winner and the Asian Tour Order of Merit champion.

International Series: A Gateway for Asian Golfers to Global Stardom

International Series: A Gateway for Asian Golfers to Global Stardom

Anirban Lahiri, a seasoned golfer with seven Asian Tour victories, believes the International Series presents a golden opportunity for Asian players to elevate their game and establish themselves on the global stage. Lahiri, the lone Asian player contracted to LIV Golf, expressed regret for not having access to such a platform during his early professional years.

The International Series England, with its $2 million prize pool, features 14 Indian players. Lahiri emphasized the significance of this event for Asian players, particularly the younger ones, who can test their skills against a formidable field and adapt to unfamiliar conditions.

“The weather in the UK changes rapidly, affecting ball distance and trajectory,” Lahiri explained. “Players need to learn how to adjust quickly and expand their repertoire. These events provide a fertile ground for growth.”

Lahiri recalled a transformative round in 2013 at the Thai Golf Championship, where he played alongside Sergio Garcia and Henrik Stenson. “It was a masterclass,” he said. “I witnessed their exceptional ball-striking and realized the need to enhance my own skills.”

“The International Series offers Asian players the chance to compete with top LIV Golf players and experience diverse conditions,” Lahiri added. “The initial years outside Asia will be challenging, but they must embrace the learning opportunities.”

Lahiri highlighted the importance of understanding limitations and challenging them. “Golf requires different shots in varying conditions,” he said. “Players need to identify their weaknesses and develop new skills to become more versatile.”

“Hideki Matsuyama is a prime example,” Lahiri noted. “He left his comfort zone, faced hardships, and emerged as a global superstar. Asian players must embrace these opportunities to achieve similar success.”

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