Lee Kyung-hoon, Target the Niche Market

No Top 20 Players at the Mexico Open
Aaron Rai, Akshay Bhatia, Patrick Rodgers, and Jake Knapp in the Field

Lee Kyoung-hoon targets a niche market.

Lee Kyung-hoon

From the 20th (local time) for four days, he will participate in the PGA Tour Mexico Open (total prize money $7 million) held at Vidanta World in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (Par 71, 7,436 yards). The Mexico Open is a tournament where top players often take a break. Players who competed fiercely last week at the Genesis Invitational, a signature event with a total prize money of $20 million, are not eager to participate in a tournament held far away in Mexico. Among the participants, there is not a single player ranked within the top 20 in the world rankings. Only two players are ranked within the top 50: Aaron Rai (England) at 29th and Akshay Bhatia (USA) at 30th.

This is a good opportunity for Lee Kyoung-hoon to achieve a strong result. Winning the tournament grants a two-year tour card, just like other tournaments. It also provides entry rights to major tournaments such as the Masters. Additionally, 500 FedEx Cup ranking points are at stake. Lee has participated four times this year, missing the cut in the first two tournaments but showing resilience by finishing tied for 9th at the Farmers Insurance Open.

The most likely winner is the rising star Bhatia, who has won twice on the PGA Tour. Bhatia was ranked number one in the PGA Tour power rankings. He performed well with a tie for 9th place at the Genesis Invitational. Aaron Rai, who achieved his first win at the Wyndham Championship last August, is also a dark horse. Patrick Rodgers, who tied for 3rd at the Genesis Invitational, and defending champion Jake Knapp (both from the USA) are also challenging for the top spot.