Tuesday February 5, 2013
Matteo, Padraig and Charl join race for Malaysian Open title
By LIM TEIK HUAT
Matteo Manassero will also be coming for the US$2.75mil tournament.-EPA PETALING JAYA: Italian youngster Matteo Manassero will bid to make another successful swing in the Maybank Malaysian Open at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club next month.
Manassero, who at 17 became the youngest champion of the tournament when he won in 2011, joins South African Charl Schwartzel and Padraig Harrington as the latest stars to confirm their participation in the US$2.75mil tournament from March 21-24.
Former world No. 1 Luke Donald of England was the first big name confirmed last month.
Manassero is definitely no stranger to Malaysia and the Malaysian Open.
The bright young golfer stunned many when he became champion in 2011 with his impressive accuracy and well-formed game.
The youngest golfer to have won the European Tour, Manassero continues to fascinate the golf world with his maturity on the course.
Returning after an impressive performance towards the end of last year, Schwartzel is looking forward to Kuala Lumpur.
“It’s one of my favourite events of the year and I love Asia – the food, people, culture and golf courses,” said Schwartzel, who secured his name as one of the world’s best when he won the US Masters in 2011.
Three-time Major champion Harrington is also set to bring intense golf competition come March.
The Irishman last took part in the Malaysian Open in 2006.
Maybank chairman Tan Sri Datuk Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor was pleased to see three big names joining the championship.
“Spectators will get to see a mix of stars, experience world-class action and be inspired at our own greens.
“With many renowned golfers who are expected to confirm their participation in the coming weeks, I foresee spectators are in for some spectacular golf action,” said Megat Zaharuddin.
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