Press Conference in Kitzbühel: Course Ready – Austria’s Top Players Set to Compete
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Kitzbühel, May 6. The Austrian Alpine Open presented by Kitzbühel-Tirol continues to gain momentum: At a press conference in Kitzbühel, Dr. Viktoria Veider-Walser, Managing Director of Kitzbühel Tourism, Patricio Hetfleisch from Tirol Werbung, and organizer Ali Al-Khaffaf presented the sporting and infrastructural highlights for Austria’s only tournament on the DP World Tour. The focus was on the further development of the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith golf course, the unique spectator experience—including the supporting program—and the Austrian field of players.
World-Class Golf Course in Kitzbühel
Since the tournament was awarded, the golf course has been specifically upgraded to top international standards. Among other things, eight new tees were constructed, fairways were reshaped, five new fairway bunker areas were integrated, and the quality of course maintenance was further enhanced. During tournament week, the course will be made even more challenging through narrower fairways, taller rough, and precisely prepared greens. The DP World Tour’s agronomy team was closely involved in this process, continuously monitoring course preparation and having already approved the renovation work back in the fall.
“We have specifically tailored the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith golf course to meet the demands of a DP World Tour event. Players can expect a layout that demands the utmost precision—and our guests can look forward to a tournament set against a backdrop that is unparalleled internationally,” says Dr. Viktoria Veider-Walser, Managing Director of Kitzbühel Tourism.
Things will get particularly exciting on the holes with elevation changes. On the 5th hole, players must account for a 34-meter descent on a short par-3. Hole 6 climbs steeply uphill and has also been changed from a par-5 to a par-4. The 7th hole is likely to become one of the course’s signature holes. The par 3, known as the “Mausefalle,” offers one of the course’s most impressive panoramas with views of the Streif and the Hahnenkamm, but requires extreme precision to avoid penalty strokes. The long par 4s could also prove decisive.
The training area has also been equipped to accommodate a top-tier international field. A new temporary driving range approximately 400 meters long is being built for the tournament—one of the longest on the tour—with views of the Wilder Kaiser. The short game and training area has been designed to provide optimal conditions for the pros while allowing fans to watch the players practice up close.
An Attractive and Extensive Supporting Program
“Starting Monday, May 25, we will be offering a supporting program—specifically for children and teenagers. In collaboration with the Tyrolean Golf Association, we will be presenting a wide range of activities throughout the week for young golfers, as well as for anyone who doesn’t yet play golf,” said Dr. Viktoria Veider-Walser.
Patricio Hetfleisch, speaking as a representative of Tirol Werbung, explained how much potential Tyrol sees in golf: “We have so many beautiful golf courses in Tyrol that attract many visitors. This tournament showcases Tyrol’s golf offerings and breathtaking scenery to the whole world, just in time for the start of the summer season. At the same time, young people who excel in a sport are the best inspiration for the next generation at home.
Organizer Ali Al-Khaffaf described the new 18th hole as a particular highlight: “The par 3 was deliberately designed as a spectacular finale to the tournament. It creates a stadium-like atmosphere that combines the excitement of the competition with the immediate proximity to the action. The players will feel the energy of the crowd.”
Strong Austrian Field
The Austrian field is generating additional interest. At the press conference, Ali Al-Khaffaf confirmed that the eight highest-ranked Austrian players in the world rankings will be competing in the Austrian Alpine Open. Already confirmed were Austrian superstar Sepp Straka, China Open winner Bernd Wiesberger, and local hero Maximilian Steinlechner. Joining them are Lukas Nemecz, Niklas Regner, and Christoph Bleier, who received wild cards from the Austrian Golf Association for professionals. This was supported by the wild card from SalzburgerLand awarded to Matthias Schwab. As the eighth local player, Timon Baltl earned his spot by winning this year’s Audi Circuit.
Starting May 8, another wildcard will be up for grabs at the “Austrian Amateur,” and on May 18, another wildcard will be awarded at the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith Golf Course, made possible by the Schön Klinik Group.
“The fact that the best Austrian players are all teeing off at the Austrian Alpine Open sends a strong signal for the sport of golf in Austria. With the top 8 Austrians in the world rankings, the audience gets exactly the field this tournament deserves,” says Ali Al-Khaffaf.
Top-Class Competition and alpine Atmosphere
The Austrian Alpine Open combines top-class competition with an alpine atmosphere and a high-quality overall experience for players, guests, and fans. The high-altitude setting, the landscape surrounding the Wilder Kaiser, the proximity to Kitzbühel’s historic downtown—which dates back over 750 years—as well as premium dining and accommodations make the tournament a special highlight on the international golf calendar.
“We are very fortunate to be able to host this tournament here in Tyrol. The combination of alpine scenery, genuine hospitality, and international sporting expertise makes this location unique. Together, we are creating a genuine experience for the local community and putting Tyrol on the global map. The Austrian Alpine Open aims to showcase what golf in Austria is capable of,” says Al-Khaffaf.
