The likelihood of a Tiger Woods-designed golf course on Hengqin Island has either dramatically improved or been totally killed by the firestorm surrounding the world's top-ranked golfer.
Two years ago, the Woods name was linked to a design on the 96 sq-km island, which lies just a sand wedge away from the gaming mecca of Macau, and connected to the Cotai Strip via the Lotus Bridge.
The rumours emerged in connection with an initial master plan drawn up by Las Vegas Sands Corporation to build a 'complementary trade-fair, convention and leisure destination' on Hengqin, which included plans for up to five golf courses.
An industry source claimed two years ago that a deal had been agreed and only contracts needed to be signed, but Woods' management company vociferously denied an agreement had been reached, although it did confirm it had received interest from a number of developers around the world.
In August, the State Council unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Hengqin into an international tourist destination - with high-class resorts and luxury villas, golf courses and software centres. Hengqin, which has three times the land area of Macau but just 4,000 residents, would boast a population of 200,000 by 2020.
When Woods emerges from his exile, his golf course design business may prove a refuge away from the media frenzy and likely heckling from fans during tournaments.
