Australia’s historic Kingston Heath to host 2028 Presidents Cup
Australia's historic Kingston Heath Golf Club has been chosen as the venue for the 2028 Presidents Cup, adding to its illustrious golfing legacy. The renowned course, which holds a special place in the hearts of many professional players, will be hosting the prestigious tournament for the fourth time in Melbourne. Designed by Dan Soutar in 1926, with assistance from Alister Mackenzie and a subsequent refresh by Mike Clayton in 2002, Kingston Heath has a rich history of hosting top-level events.
Kingston Heath has witnessed remarkable victories by golfing legends such as Tiger Woods, Gary Player, Adam Scott, and Karrie Webb. Its status as one of the top courses in the world, ranked 11th by Golf Digest, is well-deserved. The course has previously hosted seven Australian Opens, a Women's Australian Open, the Australian Masters, and the 2016 World Cup of Golf. Notably, Woods secured a victory at Kingston Heath by winning the 2009 Australian Masters, while Scott also emerged triumphant in the same tournament in 2012.
The list of Australian Open champions at Kingston Heath is equally impressive, featuring esteemed names like Gary Player, Greg Norman, Aaron Baddeley, and the legendary Karrie Webb. Additionally, golf icons Ian Baker-Finch, Kel Nagle, and Peter Thomson have also claimed victories on this exquisite layout. The Sandbelt region, home to Kingston Heath and other world-class courses, is regarded by Gary Player as hosting "the greatest golf courses in one spot on the planet." These courses are distinctive for their clever utilization of natural contours, strategic bunkering, and remarkable greens.
Kingston Heath's charm lies in its playability for all skill levels while providing a challenge to even the most seasoned golfers. It has impressed players like Woods, who incorporated elements of the course into his own golf course designs. The signature 15th hole, initially designed by Alister Mackenzie during his visit to Australia in 1926, is a testament to the continuous refinement and evolution of Kingston Heath.
At 6,800 yards, Kingston Heath was Australia's longest course when it first opened, playing to a par 82. However, Mackenzie's visit helped refine the course's bunkering strategy, and subsequent improvements have made it even more captivating. Its subtle nuances and brilliant design have earned it the admiration of major winners like Adam Scott, Shane Lowry, and Jason Dufner. Scott, a potential 2028 International Team Captain, considers Kingston Heath as his personal favorite among the Sandbelt courses, emphasizing its suitability for all golfers and its ability to challenge them.
The upcoming Presidents Cup at Kingston Heath in 2028 promises to be a thrilling match play event, showcasing the course's strategic layout and offering spectators an exciting spectacle. Scott, a veteran of ten International Teams, hopes to continue his involvement in the event and believes that Kingston Heath is well-suited to the match play format. He envisions an enjoyable experience for both players and spectators, with a potential increase in attacking play.
As the International Team aims for its second victory in the Presidents Cup, Kingston Heath presents an opportunity to secure another triumph on home soil. While the 2024 and 2026 events will be held in Canada and Chicago respectively, Scott is already looking forward to the prospect of another memorable competition in Australia. By hosting the Presidents Cup, Kingston Heath will receive well-deserved global recognition, showcasing the exceptional quality and allure of Sandbelt courses to the wider golfing community.
In conclusion, the selection of Kingston Heath as the host for the 2028 Presidents Cup further solidifies its status as a world-class golf course. With its rich history, captivating design, and the ability to challenge players of all levels, Kingston Heath promises to deliver an unforgettable tournament.
