“A bit of tension” on Ronald de Boer’s first tee shot

The KLM Open 2026 has officially begun. This morning, shortly after seven o’clock, none other than Ronald de Boer hit the very first ceremonial tee shot. It was not quite perfect. “There was definitely a bit of tension.”

It has become a strong tradition at the KLM Open for a prominent figure, acting as the honorary starter, to hit the first ball from the first tee on the opening day of the tournament.

Last year, Ruud Gullit, one of the two tournament directors, had the honour. This year, the task fell to Ronald de Boer. The former Netherlands international, who earned 67 caps for Oranje — and with the KLM Open turning orange this week due to the summer of sport and the upcoming FIFA World Cup — felt little nerves, despite his handicap “fluctuating between 8 and 12.”

“When you’re good at something, you don’t need to be nervous. And I think I can play golf reasonably well. A World Cup semi-final, that’s real pressure. Today there was a little bit of tension, but it wasn’t too bad at all.”

Meanwhile, the first players, including the Dutch favourite and tournament ambassador, have also made their way onto the course. In total, fifteen Dutch players are taking part in the tournament. Tim van der Steen was the last to join the field today, following the withdrawal of Andrew Johnston.