What you didn’t know yet: from 1912 to 2.75 million – The KLM Open in numbers
From an iconic play-off in stormy weather to the debut of a 14-year-old talent: the KLM Open has a rich history filled with memorable moments. In 2025, the tournament celebrates its 105th edition, with a starring role for the city of Amsterdam, which turns 750, and an increased prize fund. From June 5 to 8, another unforgettable week of golf awaits on Dutch soil. Let’s dive into the numbers of the KLM Open.
750
This year, Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary in grand style—and the KLM Open is proud to be part of the festivities. As a visitor, you join the celebration: the theme ‘Amsterdam 750 Years’ will be reflected in multiple ways during this 105th edition of the Dutch Open. For instance, members of Amsterdam-based golf clubs receive a €7.50 ticket discount, and every 750th visitor to the tournament receives ten complimentary drink tokens. Additionally, 750 children will be treated to a special experience at GOLF RAAK!
9
The KLM Open still holds a remarkable record: the longest play-off in DP World Tour history. In 1989, during extreme weather conditions, José María Olazábal clinched the win at Kennemer after nine extra holes. The Spaniard later said: “It was bizarre, pure survival—the wildest by far I’ve ever experienced on a golf course.” That ‘9’ was matched in 2013 (Spanish Open) and 2024 (Andalucia Masters), but never surpassed.
14
In 2022, 14-year-old Lev Grinberg made history as the youngest player ever to compete in the KLM Open. He started playing golf at the age of five with his father Illya at Kozyn Golf & Country Club in Kyiv. Two years later, they moved to Antwerp due to Illya’s work, and Rinkven became their home course. Until then, the record was held by Dutch golfer Floris de Vries, who debuted in 2005 at 14 years and 294 days old. Lev was 14 years and 199 days—proving once again, details matter.
1912
The first edition of the Dutch Open, or the ‘Netherlands International Open Championship’, was played in 1912 at the Royal Hague Golf & Country Club on Queen Wilhelmina’s birthday. This makes it one of the oldest tournaments on the European Tour (now the DP World Tour). Only The Open (1860), the French Open (1906), Belgian Open (1910), and German Open (1911) are older. The inaugural event featured twelve players and was won by Britain’s George Pannell.
105
In 2025, the 105th edition of the Netherlands International Open Championship will be played.
