HONG KONG could follow in Singapore's footsteps and become part of the recently-launched Asian Professional Golfers' Association Tour - if the price is right.
Hugh Staunton, the president of the Hong Kong Golf Association (HKGA), did not rule out the possibility of the territory's oldest professional event, the Hong Kong Open, leaving the Asian Tour and joining the Omega-sponsored Asian PGA Tour when asked yesterday.
Singapore, which was part of the Australasian Tour, announced on Monday that it would become the first national Open to join the fledgling Asian PGA Tour, set up earlier this year to promote golf amongst Asian professionals.
However, Singapore's move was strongly criticised by Brian Allan, chief executive of the Australasian Tour, who, according to an AAP report, claimed that the tournament was 'bought'.
Staunton said: 'I would not rule out anything. Hong Kong has been with the Asian Tour since the Asian Tour started, but the big issue these days is money.
'If the price is right and attractive, I think we should at least listen to any offers.
'I have heard about Singapore, but I don't know the details. It would be interesting to see what they were offered.' For Asian PGA officials, it was the breakthrough they were looking for with a national open giving the Tour more credence as a viable stage for Asian professionals.