Hong Kong Open Elevated to BWF Super 750 Status for 2027-2030 Cycle; Move to Kai Tak Arena Expected
HONG KONG – In a landmark development for Asian sports, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) announced today, February 9, 2026, that the Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships has been officially upgraded to a World Tour Super 750 event for the 2027–2030 cycle.
This promotion from its long-standing Super 500 status marks a significant milestone for the tournament, which has been a staple of the international circuit since 1982. The upgrade is expected to be accompanied by a move to the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Arena, a 10,000-seat venue designed to host world-class sporting spectacles.
A New Era for Hong Kong Badminton
The Badminton Association of Hong Kong, China Limited (BAHKC) expressed immense pride in the BWF’s decision. By joining the elite tier of Super 750 events, Hong Kong will now host one of the most prestigious tournaments on the global calendar, offering higher prize money and increased world ranking points.
Mr. Tong Wai Lun, BBS, MH, JP, President of BAHKC, highlighted the significance of the achievement:
“We are honored to be granted the hosting rights for a World Tour Super 750 event by the BWF. Hosting a tournament of this caliber is international recognition of our Association’s capability to organize world-class events and a powerful affirmation of Hong Kong’s status as an international capital for major sports events.”
Elite Competition Guaranteed
The shift to Super 750 status brings a mandatory participation rule for the world’s highest-ranked athletes. Under BWF regulations, the top 15 singles players and top 10 doubles pairs are required to compete, ensuring a star-studded lineup every year.
“This ensures that the world’s elite badminton talent will gather in Hong Kong, undoubtedly attracting fans from the Mainland, overseas, and locally,” Mr. Tong added. He also extended gratitude to the HKSAR Government and the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau for their continued support in securing the bid.
Substantial Prize Money Boost
With the elevation to Super 750 status, the tournament will see a dramatic increase in its financial rewards. Starting from the 2027 edition, the Hong Kong Open will offer a minimum prize pool of US$1.1 million (approximately HK$8.6 million). This represents more than a 100% increase from the current Super 500 prize floor, positioning the event as one of the most lucrative stops on the BWF World Tour and ensuring it remains a top priority for the world’s most elite athletes.
Historical Significance and Venue Transition
The Hong Kong Open has held 35 editions and has been recognized as an “M” Mark event by the Major Sports Events Committee since 2005. This successful bid marks the sixth consecutive cycle that BAHKC has secured World Tour hosting rights, tracing back to the Super Series era in 2007.
The anticipated move to the Kai Tak Arena represents a major logistical upgrade. With a 10,000-seat capacity, the new venue will allow more fans to witness the action compared to previous iterations, providing a modern backdrop for Olympic and Asian Games medalists as they compete for one of badminton’s most coveted titles.
As the city prepares for the 2027 transition, the upgrade reinforces Hong Kong’s role as a vital hub in the international sporting arena, showcasing the city’s “vitality and charm” to a global audience.
