New Delhi: Shubhankar Sharma, a two-time champion on the DP World Tour, along with last year's runner-up Veer Ahlawat, will spearhead a formidable contingent of Indian golfers at the 2005 edition of the Hero Indian Open golf tournament. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram from March 27 to 30.

Among the other Indian professionals confirmed to participate in the 138-player lineup are Shiv Kapur, Yuvraj Sandhu, and Manu Gandas, among others.

A notable mention is the young Indian talent Kartik Singh, who has demonstrated impressive form by finishing in the top ten in his last three international amateur competitions, including two in South Africa and one in Australia.

Ahlawat, who secured the PGTI Order of Merit title last year, is currently competing on the DP World Tour. Additionally, local golfer Gandas also participated in the DP World Tour in 2023.

The defending champion, Keita Nakajima from Japan, will lead the international competitors at the tournament, which boasts a prize purse of $2.25 million.

Germany's Marcel Siem, who secured the championship title in 2023, thereby ending a decade-long title drought, will join the 24-year-old Nakajima in the upcoming event.

Other prominent international participants include Jacques Kruyswijk, Johannes Veerman, Julien Guerrier, Angel Hidalgo, Frederic Lacroix, David Ravetto, Ewen Ferguson, and Guido Migliozzi, among others.

The Hero Indian Open 2025 is a key event in the Asian Swing, which also includes the Singapore Classic, China Open, and Hainan Classic.

Co-sanctioned by the Indian Golf Union (IGU), this tournament grants the winner of the Indian Tour a full card for the subsequent year on the DP World Tour.

“The Hero Indian Open is regarded as one of Asia’s most esteemed golf tournaments and has significantly contributed to the advancement of Indian golf, playing a vital role in highlighting India’s golfing talent on the global stage,” stated IGU president Brijinder Singh.

The Hero Indian Open not only serves as a source of inspiration but also acts as a crucial platform for Indian golfers aspiring to achieve success on the global stage. Ben Cowen, Chief Tournament and Operations Officer of the DP World Tour, expressed enthusiasm about returning to India for the 58th edition of this prestigious event, stating, "The Hero Indian Open, as the national open of India, has consistently progressed and flourished." He also extended his gratitude to the Indian Golf Union for their dedicated efforts in advancing the sport of golf in India. To further promote golf, a gaming zone will be available at the event, allowing attendees to experience the sport firsthand. Additionally, coaches will be present to assist children and emerging golfers.

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