The Irish Open has confirmed the participation of Padraig Harrington and Seamus Power, who will join Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry in the competition.
Three-time major champion Harrington and PGA Tour winner Power, who serve as golf ambassadors for Title Partner Amgen, will compete in the national open at The K Club from September 4-7. The event will highlight Harrington's return to The K Club, as the celebrated Irish golfer remains a fan favorite in the sport.
The 52-year-old has achieved 15 DP World Tour triumphs and three major victories. As the 2007 Irish Open champion, he understands what it takes to win in front of the enthusiastic home crowds and will likely contend again for the title.
Having contributed to Team Europe's Ryder Cup victory at The K Club in 2006, Harrington is anticipating another exciting week at the iconic venue. "Playing at home is always a privilege, and the Amgen Irish Open is a tournament that means a great deal to me," he said.
"The atmosphere at The K Club is always fantastic, and I know the Irish fans will come out in force once again. It's an event where you feel the energy of the crowd with every shot, and their support can really motivate you. I've been fortunate to win this tournament before, and I'd love nothing more than to have another run at the title.
"The K Club is a venue that brings back great memories for me and it's the kind of course that produces exciting finishes. It's going to be a brilliant week of golf, and I'm really looking forward to being part of it."
Joining him in the field is fellow Irishman Power, a two-time winner on the PGA Tour who has become one of Ireland's most consistent performers on the global stage. The Waterford native will be eager to put on a show for the home fans as he seeks to add his name to the list of Irish Open winners.
"The Irish Open is a tournament I've always wanted to play well in and I can't wait to be back," he said. "The K Club is a brilliant venue, and I know the crowds will create an amazing atmosphere. It's going to be a great week, and I'm really looking forward to it."Being based over in America, I cherish the opportunity to come home and compete, so this week really is a highlight of my year."
The Amgen Irish Open promises to be another unforgettable edition, as the DP World Tour's best players take on the challenge of The K Club's Palmer North Course. The renowned venue, which has previously hosted the Ryder Cup and multiple Irish Opens, is no stranger to dramatic finishes. Fans can look forward to plenty of excitement when the tournament returns in September.
Last year saw Denmark's Rasmus Hojgaard deliver a stunning final-round performance to secure his first Irish Open title, edging out a strong field in a thrilling Sunday finish. The 23-year-old clinched victory with a series of crucial birdies on the closing holes, narrowly beating home favorite McIlroy at Royal County Down.
Hojgaard's win further solidified his reputation as one of Europe's most promising young talents. His name now stands alongside some of the biggest stars in the history of Ireland's national open.
