Advertisement
Editorial | Hong Kong’s draw as elite sports event host on display at LIV Golf tournament
Besides attracting high-end visitors, the competition’s blend of elite sport and entertainment is the direction the city should be heading in
2-MIN READ2-MIN
Listen
The hosting of the star-studded LIV Golf tournament was seen as a coup for Hong Kong when it was first announced in 2023. The city was just beginning to bounce back from the Covid-19 years and urgently needed mega-events to boost its economy and international reputation.
Since then, great strides have been made, especially after the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park last year. A variety of elite sports events have been staged and more are on the way.
But the LIV Golf Hong Kong competition, held for the third time from March 5-8, remains one of the most important. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po and Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui attended to show support. The news that it will return again next year is welcome.
Advertisement
The tournament was won on Sunday by Spanish star Jon Rahm. He was full of praise for the course and the city, which he described as one of the world’s best. Rahm sent his jet to rescue seven players stranded in Dubai by the war in the Middle East, ensuring they could compete in the event.
Around 40,000 to 50,000 fans were expected at the 137-year-old Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling, many from the mainland or overseas.
Advertisement
There were plenty of high-end visitors, whom the city is keen to attract. The exclusive two-tier hospitality venue, Club 54, located near the 18th green, was sold out and packed for the tournament’s climax.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Select Speed
1.00x