From February 3 to 8, 2025, the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat, Morocco, will host the 49th edition of the prestigious Hassan II Trophy. Featuring 66 elite players from 12 nations, including 11 major championship winners and members of the World Golf Hall of Fame, this event promises to be a spectacle of skill, tradition, and global sportsmanship.
Celebrating Excellence: A Star-Studded Line-Up
The Hassan II Trophy has long been a beacon for the world’s top golfers, and the 2025 edition is no exception. Among the 66 competitors, 11 major champions, with a combined 16 Grand Slam titles, are set to compete. Golf legends like Colin Montgomerie, José María Olazábal, Retief Goosen, and Ernie Els—members of the World Golf Hall of Fame—will grace the greens. Montgomerie, who won the Hassan II Trophy in 1997, and Els, who triumphed in Rabat in 2008, return to a course that holds personal significance.
The field also includes recent winners like Stephen Ames (2023) and Ricardo Gonzalez (2024), alongside other prominent names such as Tom Lehman and Stewart Cink, both former major champions. Adding flair and finesse, Miguel Ángel Jiménez, known for his unique style, and Steven Alker, the 2024 Champions Tour leader, will aim to leave their mark. Asian golf will also shine as Ye Yang, the first Asian to win a major, competes alongside KJ Choi, a South Korean legend, and Thongchai Jaidee from Thailand.
A Tournament Rooted in Tradition
The Hassan II Trophy, established by the late King Hassan II, has become a cornerstone of international golf. Held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI and chaired by Prince Moulay Rachid, the event celebrates not only athletic excellence but also Moroccan heritage. Since 1993, it has been held alongside the Lalla Meryem Cup, showcasing both men’s and women’s golf on the same iconic course.
Beyond the competition, the event fosters community engagement with activities such as the “Pro-Am Hassan II Kids Cup,” which highlights 18 young Moroccan golfers. Spectators can enjoy interactive spaces, family-friendly activities, and local culinary experiences, making the tournament more than just a sporting event—it’s a cultural celebration.
Impact on Global Golf and Local Economy
The Hassan II Trophy continues to solidify Morocco’s position as a key player on the global golf stage. The presence of world-class athletes and a diverse international audience underscores the tournament’s status as one of the sport’s premier events. Moreover, the influx of visitors during the event significantly boosts Rabat’s local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related industries.
Simultaneously, the tournament enhances Morocco’s reputation as a golfing destination, with the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam serving as a stunning backdrop. Its challenging course, designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones, attracts players and fans alike with its blend of technical difficulty and natural beauty.
Looking Ahead: A Celebration of Golf’s Future
As the 49th edition of the Hassan II Trophy approaches, the spotlight shines brightly on both the sport’s legacy and its future. By bringing together legends of the game, rising stars, and young talents, the event exemplifies golf’s ability to unite generations and cultures. With a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and tradition, the Hassan II Trophy remains a testament to Morocco’s dedication to fostering the global growth of golf.
