International flair and Dutch talent: KLM Open 2025 wildcards announced
The organizers of the KLM Open 2025 today announce the names of the players who will receive a wildcard for the 105th edition of the tournament, which will take place from June 5 to 8 at The International near Amsterdam. It promises to be a spectacular edition – featuring major international names and promising Dutch talents who will get the chance to shine in front of a home crowd.
Former Major winner Jimmy Walker heads to Amsterdam
The most striking name on the wildcard list is Jimmy Walker, winner of the 2016 PGA Championship. The American tour veteran brings his experience, flair, and ‘Major class’ to the KLM Open. His participation underscores the international appeal of the tournament.
Comeback of crowd favorite Chris Wood
Also returning is Brit Chris Wood, former Ryder Cup star and multiple DP World Tour winner. Wood, who made waves in the previous decade, recently competed in the Turkish Airlines Open and surprised many with his score. He now makes his second comeback in Europe at the KLM Open. With his stature, powerful game, and likable demeanor, Wood has been a fan favorite for years.
Koen Kouwenaar: resilient and determined
From Dutch soil, the wildcard for Koen Kouwenaar (Den Bosch) may be the most meaningful. The 26-year-old from Brabant was long regarded as one of the Netherlands’ biggest talents but struggled with physical setbacks. Kouwenaar qualified by winning the Dutch Swing. With three consecutive tournament wins, he is back at the highest level – fitter, stronger, and more driven than ever. The KLM Open is a chance to prove himself again in a top field.
New generation of Dutch golfers gets the stage
Alongside these international and national headliners, several top Dutch amateurs have also been granted wildcards. In doing so, the KLM Open continues to invest in the future of golf in the Netherlands. Young talents such as Benjamin Reuter (22, Naarden), Nevill Ruiter (23, Bergen NH), Bjorn Driessen (18, Elburg), and Scott Woltering (19, Harderwijk) will have the unique opportunity to test themselves against the international elite – on home soil, in front of family, friends, and thousands of fans. The same applies to professional golfers Daan Huizing, Vince Van Veen, Lars Van Meijel, Aydan Verdonk, and Davey Porsius.
Daan Slooter, Tournament Director of the KLM Open:
“For over a century, the KLM Open has been the stage for top-level golf in the Netherlands. That’s precisely why we believe it’s important to give young, talented players a chance to compete against the best in the world. This mix of established names and fresh faces remains the tournament’s strength – something the Netherlands can be proud of and where new heroes can emerge.”
Tournament Director Ruud Gullit emphasizes the importance of that mix: “The KLM Open should be a place where the best of Dutch golf comes together: global stars and new heroes. We aim to inspire, challenge, and connect – with Amsterdam as the backdrop and the crowd as our driving force.”
Under the motto Great golf, good times, the KLM Open 2025 promises to be a tournament where history, experience, and sportsmanship go hand in hand – with a strong field of participants, a festive atmosphere, and a clear nod to Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary.
