Garcia to defend title at Thailand Golf C'ship

Also teeing off in the Asian Tour’s $1-million flagship event will be two more European Ryder Cup heroes – Lee Westwood, winner here in 2011, and Victor Dubuisson. Meanwhile South African legend Ernie Els will be making his first appearance in the event.

“I have been coming to the Thailand Golf Championship every year and I love it, but last time was especially special as it gave me my first win of the season,” said world No 3 Garcia, who sank a hole-in-one on his way to a four-shot win in 2013. “The event always attracts a really high-quality field and this year it is as strong as ever, so I’ll need to be at my best if I want to retain my title. I’m really looking forward to the challenge.”

In Watson and Kaymer, the Spaniard faces two players who have this season recorded their second major championship victories. In April, 35-year-old Watson put on a brilliant display to collect his second Green Jacket at the Masters, while Kaymer powered his way to a convincing first US Open title.

“Sergio played great last year and I’m sure all the European guys will be feeling good after their win at the Ryder Cup, but Amata Spring is a course I really enjoy playing and I know I can perform well on. There’s no doubt: it’s going to be another great week in Thailand,” declared Watson.

Kaymer will be making his Thailand debut and is raring to go.

“I’ve heard so many good things about the Thailand Golf Championship – the quality of the golf course, the friendliness of the fans and the great atmosphere they provide – that I was very happy adding it to my schedule,” said the German world No 12. “I’m really hoping to experience plenty of Thai culture, too.”