World Golf Hall of Famers Ernie Els and Colin Montgomerie among first names confirmed for $3-million tournament
Some of golf’s most recognisable names are set to arrive in the Algarve this summer, as the Portugal Invitational makes its debut in Vilamoura.
The tournament will take place from July 31 to August 2 at the recently opened Els Club, marking Portugal’s first individual stroke-play event sanctioned by the PGA TOUR Champions. With a prize fund of $3 million, the event signals a major moment for the country’s growing presence in international golf.
Stewart Cink
Among the first confirmed players are World Golf Hall of Famers Ernie Els and Colin Montgomerie, joined by Ryder Cup figures including Darren Clarke and Miguel Ángel Jiménez. American golfers Stewart Cink and Justin Leonard are also confirmed, adding further experience to a total of 78 competitors.
The tournament is part of a five-year partnership between the PGA TOUR Champions, Arrow Global Group, Turismo de Portugal and Turismo do Algarve, with more player announcements expected in the coming months.
Darren Clarke
“The strength of the field already committed to the Portugal Invitational really shows what this event means,” Els said. “PGA TOUR Champions represents some of the most accomplished players in the history of the game, and to see so many major champions, Ryder Cup figures and global winners coming together in Portugal is incredibly exciting not only for us as players but also for the fans.”
“When we designed this course, we always had the idea of staging world-class tournament golf in mind, and now approaching the opening event of this stature, and being able to play it alongside so many friends and major champions, is going to be a very special moment,” he added.
“Vilamoura and the Algarve are a spectacular part of the world with a real passion for golf. My family and I have been coming here for years to enjoy not only the golf, but also the welcoming atmosphere of the people and the natural beauty of the region, something I’m sure all of the players will experience when they arrive.”
Tickets are now on sale for the very first PGA TOUR Champions event in Europe.
The tournament will be broadcast in the United States on Golf Channel, with international coverage reaching more than 170 countries through 25 media partners.
Tickets are already on sale, with early-bird offers available until June 1. General admission starts at €20, with three-day passes from €50. Children aged 16 and under can attend free of charge when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Volunteer registration is also open, offering a chance to get closer to the action and support the local community during one of the Algarve’s standout sports events of the year.
For more information, contact [email protected]
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