15-Year-Old Tian Jun and Regional Pro Brian O’Donovan Qualify for SJM Macao Open 2025
[Macao SAR, 30 September 2025] — Launched last year to nurture emerging golfing talent, this year’s SJM Macao Open Qualifier Tournament saw 15-year-old Hong Kong, China representative squad member Ethan Tian Jun and regional professional Brian O’Donovan secure coveted spots in the SJM Macao Open 2025. The duo finished as the top two players in the one-day, 18-hole Gross Stroke Play competition held at the Macau Golf & Country Club. The qualifier offers two places in the main tournament, scheduled for 16–19 October 2025.
Tian claimed the top spot outright with a stellar two-under-par 68 in hot conditions. O’Donovan’s path was more dramatic: after finishing in a three-way tie at even-par 70 with Lai Qin-wen and William Tang, he emerged victorious in a single-hole playoff to claim the second qualifying berth.
A Dream Realized for Young Talent
Tian, who began playing golf at age seven, reflected on his achievement:
“I had a great experience. The course is amazing and in great condition even after the typhoon. Playing the Qualifier Tournament was a great opportunity for me to get used to playing under pressure, which is something I’m working on.”
The win adds to an already impressive junior résumé—he is also the winner of this year’s Nick Faldo Hong Kong Series. Last year, Tian narrowly missed qualification by just two strokes, making this year’s success especially meaningful.
“Last year I had some regrets, so this year I used my score to wipe that away,” he said. “This experience will help me stay patient, stay calm, and play the conditions better at the SJM Macao Open. I hope to play on tour in the future, but for now I just want to learn from the players competing at the SJM Macao Open—they’re world class. Playing alongside them will help my game a lot.”
Tian is particularly excited to tee it up alongside Taichi Kho, Hong Kong, China’s No. 1 player.
O’Donovan Returns with Experience and Grit
For Irish professional Brian O’Donovan, the qualifier was a test of resilience.
“The round was scrappy to be honest, but my short game was good,” he admitted. “I played here last year and finished one over, so I knew that around par would be close—and I just held on for it.”
Having famously made the cut at the 2023 Hong Kong Open as a club pro, O’Donovan knows what it takes to compete among elite players. He praised both the course and the opportunity the qualifier provides.
“The course is good, the greens are great, and it really suits the way I play golf. I’m quite looking forward to it—it should be a good week.”
“I’ve done well in the past when I’ve qualified, but we’ll take it one stroke at a time and see how we go.”
He also highlighted the rising standard of regional talent:
“It’s great to see the standard coming through in the region. Ethan is a good player and he’s got what it takes. The SJM Macao Open Qualifier is an awesome opportunity for young players—it gives them real insight into what professional golf is like.”
O’Donovan emphasized the mental and logistical demands of pro events:
“Amateur events are good, and there are some big ones—but when you tee it up with the pros, you have to have your routines, practice, and weekly preparation nailed down. It’s a great preview of life next month at the SJM Macao Open.”
Growing the Game in Macao
The qualifier field showcased a strong mix of emerging talent from Hong Kong, Macao, and mainland China, underscoring golf’s vibrant growth across the region.
Among those inspired by the event was Chen Jia-sheng, a 26-year-old Macao amateur playing in his first professional tournament on his home course. Though he didn’t qualify, the experience left a lasting impact.
“I’ve been playing golf since I was nine, but mostly for fun. I took it more seriously after university. This was my first chance to play in a tournament with professionals—it was a really good experience. I felt pressure, but I could compete because this is my home course.”
Chen credited childhood memories of watching the Macao Open for fueling his passion—and even helped his preparation:
“100% I’m coming to the SJM Macao Open. It’s incredible seeing major winners play in Macao. Before the qualifier, I watched videos of where those guys hit their shots here—it actually helped me.”
He also noted the surge in local youth participation:
“The development of golf in Macao is good now. I see a lot of young amateurs—15 or 16 years old—playing really well. You can tell they’ve had extensive training. I want to keep working on my game. If I come back next year, my confidence will be better. I don’t know if my score will improve, but my confidence definitely will. I’d rate this experience an 8 out of 10—and I’ll definitely be back.”
A Prestigious Stage on the Asian Tour
The SJM Macao Open 2025, a USD $1 million event, is a highlight of the Asian Tour calendar. It is jointly organized by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government (MSB), title sponsor SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM), and IMG, and co-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Macau Golf Association.
Now in its 22nd year, the tournament has hosted legendary major champions including Ernie Els, Nick Faldo, Fred Couples, Padraig Harrington, and Vijay Singh. Zhang Lianwei, the pioneer of Chinese golf and the only two-time winner (and sole title defender) in event history, will also return in 2025.
Free Admission with Registration
In keeping with SJM’s commitment to community engagement, admission to the SJM Macao Open 2025 will be free with prior registration. Each person may request up to four tickets.
Don’t miss the action!
👉 Register and secure your tickets at: www.sjmmacaoopen.com
