Couples to play in Australian Open

Thu 2 Sep

American Fred Couples, one of the most popular and successful players in the game, has confirmed he will compete in this year's Australian Open on OneAsia.

The 50-year-old former US Masters champion who is currently enjoying an outstanding maiden season on the Champions Tour will draw the crowds when the championship tees-off at The Lakes in Sydney from December 2 to 5.

Prize money for the prestigious event will be US$1.3 million (AU$1.5 million) and for the second successive season it will be the penultimate leg on OneAsia.

Couples is the latest big name addition to the tournament which will also feature defending champion Adam Scott from Australia and his compatriots Greg Norman, a five-time winner of the event, and Geoff Ogilvy.

American John Daly also recently announced he will join the stellar field.

Said Couples: "I am very much looking forward to playing in the Australian Open in particular The Lakes Golf Club. I have not been to Sydney for some time and look forward to visiting this magnificent city once again."

Minister for Major Events Kevin Greene said Sydney is synonymous with the Australian Open, a flagship event of our great sporting nation, first played in Sydney in 1904.