Kuala Lumpur: 2010 US Open champion Graeme McDowell and Ryder Cup-winning skipper Paul McGinley have confirmed their participation at the 2015 Malaysian Open as banking giants Maybank celebrate their decade-long title sponsorship of the prestigious tournament.
One of the finest shot-makers in the game, McDowell is a name that is recognized worldwide when he upstaged Tiger Woods in the 2010 Chevron World Challenge.
His most recent win came when he completed a successful title defence at the Alstom Open de France in June, overcoming Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand, a former two-time Malaysian Open winner, and American Kevin Stadler by a single stroke to reach 10 European Tour wins.
Having played an integral part in three European Ryder Cup-winning teams, McDowell knows a thing or two about converting putts when it matters. The Ulsterman said he was looking forward to returning to Kuala Lumpur for the US3 million event, which will be staged at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club from February 5-8.
“I’ve heard so many great things about the Maybank Malaysian Open. It has been a few years since I’ve had the chance to get back to playing this event. I’ve played it a few times back in my early days on the European Tour and it’s great to have the chance to go back to a real authentic world-class global event like the Maybank Malaysian Open,” said McDowell.
“I have heard nothing but great things about the tournament from friends; Lee Westwood has played very well there. I’m excited to get back … just a great place to start the year.”
A Ryder Cup legend, McGinley needs little introduction to local golf fans after his iconic leadership of Team Europe at the 2014 edition of the biennial dust-up in Gleneagles, Scotland.
With nine worldwide victories to his name, including four on the European Tour, McGinley will bring his personal charisma and tireless work ethics to the fore at Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
“In 2015, as we celebrate the 10th year as title sponsor of the Malaysian Open, we continue with the tradition of bringing a selection of golfing personalities to Malaysia. Graeme McDowell and Paul McGinley, fresh from recent victories and with charisma attracting a huge worldwide following as they display high standards of sportsmanship, integrity and grit; offering fans exciting and competitive golf every time,” said Maybank chairman Tan Sri Dato’ Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor.
“We are proud of our role in the Maybank Malaysian Open, showcasing a world-class tournament steeped in Malaysian history. Its schedule, in the early part of the professional season, has produced surprising winners, young and not so young, and I expect this next version to yield similar excitement and outcome.”
