The local golf star finished just one shot behind winner Thaworn Wiratchant, who has confirmed he will defend his title in the $1 million tournament, the most lucrative such event in the country.
“I was pleased with my performance in the tournament last year,” said Rory, 23. “But it was the past and the result won’t be counted.”
After that impressive performance in the tournament, which was sanctioned by the OneAsia tour, Rory went on to win the Tangshan China PGA Championship — an Asian Tour event — in September to become the first Indonesian golfer to win an international tournament outside his home country.
“I want to improve, though I know that Emeralda will pose great challenges,” he said. “I’m sure everyone will play their best, so it will be tough.”
The Indonesia Open is this year’s OneAsia circuit opener. Also confirmed to play is Andre Stolz, an Australian who won OneAsia’s Order of Merit last year.
This year will be the first of a three-year deal between OneAsia and the Japan Golf Tour Organization to joint-sanction the tournament, the first time the two have cooperated as such.
“With the two bodies joining forces, I believe more world-class golfers will come to play in the Indonesia Open,” Indonesia Golf Association vice chairman H.M.P. Simatupang said. “That will only benefit local golfers and fans.”
Enjoy Jakarta, the local tourism authority which promotes the capital’s attractions, will also step up its involvement in the tournament by becoming the title sponsor following years of co-sponsorship.
The Indonesia Open has been staged since 1974 and is the country’s oldest golf tournament. It’s one of 14 tournaments on the OneAsia circuit this year, which boasts an overall purse of $16 million.
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