NZ Open: John Catlin headlines Asian Tour representation at 104th edition

John Catlin. Photo / Getty Images

American John Catlin will lead one of the most competitive fields in New Zealand Open history, following his triumph in the 2024 Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Catlin, 34, enters the event after securing his first-ever Order of Merit title last season.

Catlin showed consistency last season and delivered multiple standout performances, including victories at the International Series Macau and the Saudi Open, alongside six other top-10 finishes, culminating in a season-long Merit title, ahead of New Zealand’s own Ben Campbell.

“I’m incredibly proud to have secured the Order of Merit title last year. It was arguably the best stretch of golf in my career, marked by great consistency,” said Catlin.

“I’m really excited to return to Queenstown for the New Zealand Open. It’s a tournament I’ve always aspired to win, and this year’s competition will be as strong as ever. Millbrook Resort is a stunning course, and I’m thrilled to be back.”

Catlin’s stellar season also earned him the Kyi Hla Han Award for Player of the Year on the Asian Tour, his second win of the prestigious accolade. The season included a historic 59 on day three in Macau, marking the first-ever sub-60 round in Asian Tour history.

“We are excited to welcome John back to the New Zealand Open,” said Tournament Director Michael Glading.

“His success last season was exceptional, and we’re thrilled he is returning to Queenstown for the first time since 2020. He will be one of the key players to watch at Millbrook Resort.”

Catlin is not the sole Asian Tour representative at the New Zealand Open, with seven of the top 12 players in the 2024 Asian Tour Order of Merit joining him in Queenstown.

Local favourite Campbell, who placed fourth in the Order of Merit, will be joined by a stellar lineup that includes Jazz Janewattananond (Thailand), M.J. Maguire (US), Miguel Tabuena (Philippines), Taichi Kho (Hong Kong), Steve Lewton (England), Jbe’ Kruger (South Africa), Jeunghun Wang (Korea), and Travis Smyth (Australia), ensuring an exciting and competitive tournament this year.

The 104th New Zealand Open takes place at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown from February 27 to March 2, with players vying for a share of the $2 million prize pool confirmed last month.