The SJM Macao Open 2026 is set to draw a strong international field when it tees off from 15 to 18 October at the Macau Golf & Country Club. Organised by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, SJM Resorts, and IMG, the event is co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Macau Golf Association. The tournament offers a US$1 million prize purse and will be headlined by major champion Henrik Stenson and two-time PGA Tour winner Sungjae Im.
Stenson and Im Lead the Field
Henrik Stenson, making his debut in Macao, said: “I am delighted to be coming to the vibrant city of Macao for the first time to compete at the SJM Macao Open this October.” Sungjae Im, who finished in the top 10 at last year’s edition, added: “I am looking forward to returning to Macao this October to compete at the SJM Macao Open.”
Defending champion Dominic Foos will also return, aiming to repeat his historic victory that made him the first German to win an Asian Tour event since 1996. Chinese golf legend Zhang Lianwei, a two-time Macao Open winner, and rising star Sampson Zheng Yunhe are also confirmed in the lineup.
The event is expected to attract significant attention from the travel and tourism sectors, particularly for Macao’s growing reputation as a destination for premium sports tourism. The tournament’s blend of world-class golf and local cultural heritage is a key draw for international visitors, including those travelling from key source markets in Asia and Europe.
Lei Si Leng, Acting President of the Sports Bureau, noted: “This year, community promotion efforts will be further deepened to introduce golf to people of different age groups.” The organisers are also offering free admission, with fans able to register for complimentary tickets online.
For travel professionals, the SJM Macao Open represents an opportunity to package golf tourism experiences in Macao, a destination already known for its luxury resorts and entertainment offerings. The tournament’s timing in October positions it well for autumn travel itineraries, complementing the region’s broader tourism calendar.
As Macao continues to diversify its tourism product beyond casinos, events like the SJM Macao Open help reinforce its appeal to high-net-worth travellers and sports enthusiasts. The involvement of global stars like Stenson and Im further elevates the event’s profile, making it a potential anchor for luxury travel packages and corporate hospitality programmes.
For more on how destinations are leveraging sports events to boost tourism, see our coverage of Visit Qatar Opens Registration for Inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Doha in 2027 and Post-Conflict Nations Rebuild Tourism Through Cultural Heritage Revival.
