WORLD NUMBER FOUR Hideki Matsuyama will make his first appearance at a regular European Tour event next month after confirming he’ll play in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
The 25-year-old will join the likes of Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose and Jon Rahm in Portstewart between 6-9 July.
Matsuyama has won three times on the PGA Tour in the last 18 months and his addition to the field is another big boost for organisers ahead of what is expected to be the biggest tournament in its history.
The Japanese star is one of three players inside the world’s top ten already confirmed for the Irish Open, which is this year included in the European Tour’s new Rolex Series.
As a result, the overall prize fund has increased to a record €7 million.
“I am really looking forward to playing the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open for the first time,” Matsuyama said. “I have heard great things about the tournament and about the Northern Irish fans.
“It is important to play some links golf ahead of The Open Championship and I’m sure Portstewart will be the perfect preparation for me.
“I know Rory puts a lot into this tournament and he has done an incredible job raising its profile. I’m really excited and I know it will be a great week.”
Other players already confirmed to be in the field are Shane Lowry, Pádraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke and Lee Westwood.
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