The Fiji International is set to host its biggest world star in its short two year history.
World Number 16 Matt Kuchar has signed on to compete in the 2015 Fiji International at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from 15-18 October.
It will be the first visit to Fiji for Kuchar, who is a seven-time winner on the world’s biggest tour, the PGA TOUR.
An experienced veteran, he also has represented the United States on three Ryder Cup, two Presidents Cup and two World Cup teams.
Extremely engaging, relatable and likeable with a smile always on his face, Kuchar has distinguished himself as a fan favourite in each of the tournaments he’s played.
“I’m excited to be competing in the Fiji International, as I’ve heard great things about Natadola Bay and the area itself,” said Kuchar.
“As I’m enjoying the challenge on the course, I know my family will be enjoying a variety of different activities the location has to offer.”
Competing in the final Major of the year, Kuchar has today fired an opening round of 4-under 68 to be tied second at the PGA Championship in America.
The inaugural Fiji International attracted a strong field of players from around the world, but the inclusion of Kuchar this year takes it to the next level.
“Matt is a truly elite player who is a fixture in all the biggest tournaments in the world, including the Majors,” said Stephen Ayles, Chief Commercial Officer of the PGA of Australia.
“Having him compete in the Fiji International is a huge boost to the tournament; a strong playing field will help us achieve just about every key performance metric associated with the tournament.”
“Last year’s field was impressive, but attracting a player of Matt’s calibre is further evidence of the traction that the Fiji International is gaining on the world golf stage.”
The Fiji International is earning a reputation amongst the world’s best golfers as a unique tournament played on a championship grade golf course in a tropical location that they and their families can enjoy.
“Players compete at events all over the U.S. and Europe, but the Fiji International is special; they can bring their family, and while they compete in the tournament their family will have an amazing time,” added Ayles.
“The whole resort at the InterContinental and everything that Fiji offers is right there on top of an amazing golf course and an amazing location.”
“This is different to what the Professionals get to experience week in, week out, and Matt Kuchar and his family will be taking full advantage of that in October.”
To be played at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from 15-18 October, the Fiji International will be broadcast around the world.
The Fiji International is co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia.
The inaugural Fiji International signalled Fiji’s official arrival onto the world golfing stage with the Fijian Government, Fiji Tourism and Fiji’s number one golf ambassador, Vijay Singh, all making a push to put their country on the lucrative world golfing map.
In 2015, the Fiji International is expected to grow with the tournament establishing a reputation amongst the world’s best golfers as a must-attend event for themselves and their families.
The tournament also boosts some of the most unique hospitality options in world golf with the par-3 4th hole providing the perfect vantage point to watch the golf whilst socialising on the beach.
More than just a golf tournament, the Fiji International aims to leave a lasting legacy for golf in the Pacific with the PGA of Australia supporting initiatives to introduce and grow the game in Fiji.