Georgia Hall, one of European golf’s brightest stars, has been confirmed for next month’s inaugural Saudi Ladies International.
The Englishwoman, the 2018 Woman’s British Open champion, has added her name to the March 19-22 event, which takes place for the first time at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City, near Jeddah.
Hall, 23, landed her first major in two years ago, becoming the first Englishwoman in 14 years to capture that particular trophy, while she won also the Ladies European Tour (LET) Order of Merit in 2017 and 2018.
Last year, Hall formed part of a victorious European team that defeated the USA for a first Solheim Cup victory in six years.
“It’s incredibly exciting to be part of the first Saudi Ladies International and make golfing history in the country,” Hall said. “From what I’ve seen of the golf course, it looks a stunning set-up on the Red Sea and a pretty challenging test. It’s a brilliant chance for us to showcase our game to newcomers to golf.”
The Saudi Ladies International marks the first professional women’s golf tournament held in the kingdom, and will welcome a number of renowned European players, including Wales’ Amy Boulden, Sweden’s Camilla Lennarth and Carly Booth of Scotland.
Thailand’s teenage sensation Atthaya Thitikul, a two-time winner on the LET, will also compete among the 108-strong field for the $1 million (Dh3.67m) purse.
Boulden said: “Our game continues to break new ground and coming to new places like Saudi Arabia for the first time shows the ambition of Golf Saudi and the Tour. I want to play well in a big event so that can give me some momentum for the season.”
Lennarth added: “Playing golf in front of new fans is the best way to grow the game and hopefully we inspire more girls to pick up a golf club and get involved in our great sport. I hope to see many people at the championship next month.”
