The Hainan Classic, part of the DP World Tour’s Asian Swing, is set to debut from Thursday, April 24, to Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Blackstone Course, Mission Hills Resort, located on Hainan Island, China. This inaugural event promises a thrilling competition as players tackle one of the longest and most challenging courses on the tour, with a $2.5 million prize fund at stake.
Tournament Format
The Hainan Classic will feature a stroke-play format over 72 holes, with the cut line determined after 36 holes. The top players will advance to the weekend rounds, competing for the title on a course that demands precision, power, and adaptability.
Course Overview: Blackstone Course
- Designer: Schmidt-Curley Design
- Length: 7,711 yards
- Par: 72
- Features:
- The Blackstone Course is renowned for its volcanic terrain, with holes winding through dense jungle, wetlands, and lava rock formations.
- Wide fairways provide room off the tee, favoring big hitters, while multi-tiered greens demand accuracy on approach shots.
- Extensive bunkering and steep elevation changes add to the challenge, making strategy and course management crucial.
- Weather conditions, including potential rain and gusty winds, could play a significant role in shaping the competition.
Key Players to Watch
Haotong Li (China)
- Recent Form: Li narrowly missed victory at the Volvo China Open last week, finishing tied for the lead after 54 holes.
- Strengths: A four-time DP World Tour winner, Li’s ability to handle pressure and his familiarity with local conditions make him a favorite.
Eugenio Chacarra (Spain)
- Recent Form: Chacarra has been in excellent form, with a win at the Hero Indian Open and a fourth-place finish at the Volvo China Open.
- Strengths: Known for his consistency and sharp iron play, Chacarra is poised to contend again.
Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (Denmark)
- Recent Form: Neergaard-Petersen has posted top-22 finishes in his last four events, including two runner-up results.
- Strengths: His steady play and ability to adapt to challenging conditions make him a strong contender.
Wenyi Ding (China)
- Recent Form: Ding secured a top-10 finish at the Volvo China Open and has been a rising star in Asian golf.
- Strengths: At just 20 years old, Ding’s composure and local knowledge could give him an edge.
Elvis Smylie (Australia)
- Recent Form: Smylie claimed his first DP World Tour title in Australia and tied for 15th in Shanghai last week.
- Strengths: A powerful driver and solid approach game make him a player to watch.
Tournament Outlook
The Hainan Classic marks the conclusion of the DP World Tour’s Asian Swing, offering players a final opportunity to shine in China. The Blackstone Course’s length and complexity will favor players with strong driving and precise iron play, while adaptability to weather conditions will be critical.
