The WGC-HSBC Champions was first held in November 2005 at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai, with a total prize fund of $5 million. 

It attracted a total of 75 golfers, including winners from professional golf tours such as the European Tour, the Australian Tour, the Asian Tour, and the Sunshine Tour. Notable participants included Eldrick Tiger Woods, who was ranked No 1 in the world at that time, and No 2 Vijay Singh. This tournament marked Eldrick Tiger Woods' first official world ranking tournament in China.

The WGC-HSBC Champions is scheduled to be held in November every year, allowing for the conclusion of major tournaments to determine the final invitation list. 

A view of the WGC-HSBC Champions held in Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaitiyu]

By including winners from the four major tours, the tournament brings together the world's top-ranked golfers, making it a truly international championship held in China.

In 2009, the WGC-HSBC Champions was officially accepted by the World Golf Championship and became a stop on the PGA Tour calendar. It remained in Shanghai in 2010 to coincide with the Shanghai World Expo.

It follows a 72-hole individual stroke play format and features a lineup of champion golfers from around the world.

Source: Shanghai Administration of Sports