Renowned joker of the pack Bubba Watson is famous for his monkey business off the course but, alongside three European Tour stars and local hero Li Haotong, the two-time Masters Champion experienced a much more literal interpretation of the phrase ahead of the Shenzhen International.
The American was joined by the tournament’s defending champion Kiradech Aphibarnrat as well as his fellow Major winner YE Yang, three time European Tour winner Thorbjørn Olesen and Haotong at the unique opening ceremony of the European Tour’s first event of the season on Chinese soil.
According to the Chinese calendar, 2016 is the year of the Monkey, and the players got into the spirit of things by painting monkey masks following a traditional performance of the 'Monkey King' – a mythical character inspired by classical Chinese literature – and the tournament mascot, "Hui Hui".
Under the guidance of the Monkey King, each player took turns imitating his actions to the delight of the guests and assembled media in attendance.
“I’ve learned a lot about Chinese culture,” said Watson. “Shenzhen is growing and the world is taking notice. It’s a fun place to come and play and it’s growing in the right direction.
“I have returned here with the goal of winning. Every tournament I play in I want to win, and winning again in China would be particularly special.” Bubba Watson
Three time European Tour winner Olesen said: “It was good fun - I didn't know anything about the monkeys here, it was good fun, a good show.
“That's the beauty of playing on The European Tour. We travel all over the world and we see so many different cultures, and especially when you come here, it's so different from Europe. So, I think it's a good experience to have."
Aphibarnrat, who overcame Haotong to prevail in a play-off last year, said: “Shenzhen is such a special city to me – it's one of the most exciting we visit on the Tour, and I'll always have wonderful memories of winning last year.
“The Shenzhen International has an excellent reputation among the players, which is why the field is so strong this year.”
