2019 World Golf Championships - HSBC Champions Preview

October 29 2019 – THE GOLF SOCIETY

The best players in the world gather in Shanghai yet again for the 15th Annual WGC - HSBC Champions. Last year, Xander Schauffele defeated Tony Finau in a sudden-death playoff for his 3rd career PGA Tour victory, and he’s back to defend his title against an always-elite field. Past champions in the field include the last two winners: Hideki Matsuyama and Justin Rose. Other notables in the field include 2019 Open Champion ShaneLowry, reigning FedEx Cup champion Rory McIlroy, and current Race to Dubai points leader Bernd Wiesberger.

LOCATION

Sheshan Golf Club - has hosted every edition of this WGC event with the exception of 2012. Considered one of the country’s best private golf clubs, scoring can very from extremely low to mid-teens under par. The club’s closing par-5 requires an approach shot over water, which can lead to several-shot swings when the pressure is on.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Hideki Matsuyama: Not only did he claim the victory here in 2017, but he came close to earning a victory in his home country last week at the Zozo Championship. Look for him to continue his impressive play, and add another World Golf Championship to his list of prestigious victories.

Rory McIlroy: He’s won two of the four World Golf Championships, and he finished tied for 4th here in 2017. He always seems to gear up for these high-profile golf tournaments, so don’t be surprised to see Rory contend this week.