2024-08-29 22:09:30
Indonesian golfer Jonathan Wijono. Photo: source for jpnn
jpnn.comJAKARTA – Star players can’t wait to compete in the prestigious Mandiri Indonesia Open 2024 tournament which will be held at Damai Indah Golf – PIK Course, Jakarta, August 29 – September 1.
Defending champion Nitithorn Thippong is determined to retain his title.
Gaganjeet Bhullar, who has won three times, also wants to add to his collection of wins. Jonathan Wijono also hopes to present a trophy for Indonesia.
“There should be a lot of opportunities because hometown “Yes, but still can’t underestimate. Must focus on the target and game plan that has been made. Definitely must do our best to fight for the trophy,” said Jonathan who is familiarly called Jowi when asked about the chances of becoming champion.
Jowi, who is currently the best golfer in Indonesia, is proud to be able to participate in the Mandiri Indonesia Open. As a host player, he certainly knows the course. However, he will not want to over confident. “We definitely have to be more confident, but we must not be overconfident, remain confident in the strategy that has been made and commit to it,” he said.
Nitithorn immediately did nine-hole practice as soon as he arrived in Jakarta. According to him, his struggle this time will not be easy.
“The course is great, but I have to work hard on the greens. I had a good practice today, but the greens were a bit tricky, which affected some of my putts. I have to figure out how to overcome that,” said the Thai golfer.
According to him, his game is currently not good. He is trying hard with his coach to find his best swing again.
“I think it’s better now and I have a better feel after practicing nine holes here. I’m very happy to be able to join this tournament and will defend my title,” he said.
Gaganjeet is very familiar with Damai Indah Golf – PIK Course. He won the Indonesia Open in 2013, 2016, and 2022. His first victory was achieved on this course. For him, the Indonesia Open is a special tournament.
“I have a lot of history with the Indonesia Open and I feel proud to be a part of this tournament. I personally feel that the Mandiri Indonesia Open is probably one of the best events of the year,” said Bhullar, a golfer from India who has been coming to Indonesia for the past 20 years.
“Eleven years ago I became champion on this court and I want to repeat it again. However, I have to stay focused on the game,” he added.
“As I said, I really like the course setup, plus I feel comfortable playing in the heat. Also, I like the challenge of the course layout,” he added.
Mandiri Indonesia Open 2024 offers a total prize of 500,000 US dollars or around Rp. 8.15 billion (exchange rate of 1 US$ = Rp. 16,300), with the first winner entitled to 90,000 US dollars.
This year marks the third year that Bank Mandiri has been the title sponsor for the Indonesia Open.
Damai Indah Golf – PIK Course will once again host the Mandiri Indonesia Open 2024, after last hosting it ten years ago. Golfers will face new challenges at Damai Indah Golf – PIK Course, designed by legendary golf course designer, Robert Trent Jones Jr.
For your information, the Indonesia Open has been held since 1974. Until now, only one Indonesian golfer has ever won, namely Kasiadi in 1989. Another Indonesian player, Rory Hie, almost repeated history in 2011.
The star players can’t wait to compete in the prestigious Mandiri Indonesia Open 2024 tournament which will be held at Damai Indah Golf – PIK Course.