Spanish golfers have often played a starring role in the 30 year history of the BMW International Open, and that could be set to continue as Sergio García, Pablo Larrazábal and Rafa Cabrera Bello confirm their participation at the iconic German tournament.
Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, the Open Champion and current World Number Five, announced in December that he would be defending his title at Golfclub München Eichenried in June.
“I can’t wait to come back the BMW International Open in Munich,” said García. “It will be a great tournament week, and I am looking forward to playing in front of a great crowd in Eichenried. The BMW International Open is a tournament with a special atmosphere and has been one my personal highlights for many years.”
Although the BMW International Open is missing from the collection of titles amassed by the five-time Ryder Cup winner, that may be set to change in June after he started the season in sparkling form by claiming his first European Tour victory since 2014 at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
Garcia was involved in a memorable play-off with his compatriot Pablo Larrazábal in Munich in 2011, thrilling spectators with an intense, five-hole battle. Larrazábal came out on top back then, with the 33 year old adding a second BMW International Open title two years ago.
This June he returns to Eichenried as the last man to win in Munich, as Stenson’s victory last year – his second after winning the 2006 edition – came in Cologne.
Stenson and Larrazábal both have an added incentive this year as one more victory would see them surpass Paul Azinger (1990 & 1992) and Thomas Bjørn (2000 & 2002) as the record winner of the tournament.
Big-hitting Spaniard Cabrero Bello also comes into the tournament as one of the favourites. Following an excellent 2016 he made an impressive debut at The Ryder Cup, impressing alongside García in the doubles and remaining undefeated at Hazeltine National Golf Club.
Admission to the 2017 BMW International Open is free from Wednesday to Friday, while under 15s enjoy free entry on all days. Tickets for the weekend and the Fairway Club can be ordered at tickets.bmw-golfsport.com
