Choi for Open

South Korean golfer KJ Choi will be competing at the New Zealand Open in Queenstown in March.

Choi is one of the top 25 players in golf’s all-time money list and has eight PGA tour wins in a career that’s seen him spend 40 weeks among the top 10 of the world rankings.

The 47-year-old joins Kiwis Michael Hendry, Ryan Fox, Tim Wilkinson and Steven Alker among the names confirmed for the Open.

‘‘I visited New Zealand as part of a winter training group in 1995 and I remember the beautiful trees on the golf course. I can’t believe it’s already been 21 years. I’m very excited and can’t wait to play in front of the New Zealand golf fans,’’ Choi said.

Since turning professional in 1994, Choi has amassed over NZ$50 million in prizemoney and his best success was winning the 2011 Players Championship. He also finished third at the Masters in 2004.

Choi will take part in the 99th edition New Zealand Open which is held at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown on 1-4 March. Tournament organisers said they will be confirming more names in the coming weeks.

‘‘I’m motivated to continue playing because of the fans. This is my 19th season on the PGA Tour and 25th year playing professional golf,’’ Choi added.

‘‘I certainly would not have achieved what I have been able to do without the fan support. Knowing this I’ve always tried to repay the fans by playing my best out on the golf course.’’