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A New Era for Golf: The Launch of WDCGOLF

In a groundbreaking move for the golfing world, a new professional tour known as WDCGOLF, or the World Dream Circuit Golf Tour, has officially been introduced. This innovative tour is set to host an impressive 1,500 tournaments annually with a staggering total prize pool of 8 billion yen. With its focus on regional revitalization and support for players, WDCGOLF aims to address long-standing challenges in the professional golf landscape of Japan.

Key Features of WDCGOLF

WDCGOLF introduces several unique aspects that distinguish it from existing circuits:
1. Three-Tier Tournament Structure: The tour is structured to accommodate both professional and amateur players, ensuring a wide array of participation.
2. Local Focus for Community Development: Divided into five regional blocks across Japan, WDCGOLF emphasizes local engagement and aims to contribute to the resurgence of golf courses and job creation in these areas.
3. Diversity Inclusiveness: The tour promotes diversity by allowing participants from various age groups, genders, educational backgrounds, and nationalities.
4. International Competitiveness: With a goal to feature an international lineup, WDCGOLF aims to attract talent globally, creating a rich competitive environment.
5. Innovative Financial Support Systems: For the first time in the world, professional players will enjoy a salary system, along with lifetime pension plans and injury-related income protection policies, fostering a sustainable career in golf.

These systems are specifically designed to create an environment where refugee professionals—those who have struggled economically—can fully dedicate themselves to the sport.

The Pre-Opening Championship

To kick off the launch of WDCGOLF, a pre-opening championship will take place from March 17 to April 15, 2026. The event will span five different locations across Japan, with each event featuring a prize of 2 million yen, culminating in a total prize pool of 10 million yen.

Events Details:

• - East Central Region: March 17 at Susono Country Club, Shizuoka Prefecture
• - Hokkaido/Tohoku Region: March 31 at Omoto Zao International Golf Club, Miyagi Prefecture
• - Kansai Region: April 2 at Tojo no Mori Country Club, Hyogo Prefecture
• - Kanto Region: April 10 at Tsurumai Country Club, Chiba Prefecture
• - Chugoku/Shikoku/Kyushu/Okinawa Region: April 15 at Fukuoka Century Golf Club, Fukuoka Prefecture

Registration will open on January 12, 2026, with online applications available via the official WDCGOLF website.

Maintaining a Player-Centric Approach

The WDCGOLF organization, established to support the development of junior players, recognizes the staggering number of talented players who retire from the sport due to financial limitations. By simplifying the qualifying process, WDCGOLF is committed to creating an equitable platform where aspiring golfers can thrive.

Community Engagement and Economic Impact

By promoting local business involvement through sponsorship and ticket sales, WDCGOLF serves as a catalyst for regional economic revitalization. The tour aims to instill a sense of community ownership where local stakeholders—from businesses to residents—collaborate to support their golfers and the wider sport.

As Japan boasts one of the highest numbers of golf courses globally, leveraging these facilities for professional competitions will help enhance their social value. This fresh approach aims to shift golf from merely a sport to a vibrant experience, driving tourism and economic activities within the hosting regions.

Looking Towards the Future

With ambitions that include expanding into international markets and possibly considering an initial public offering (IPO) in the future, WDCGOLF is positioned to lead the transformation not only in Japanese golf but also in the broader global arena. By fostering talent development and promoting sustainable business practices, this tour promises to reshape the concept of professional golfing.