Former Chelsea and AC Milan Star Ruud Gullit has traded the football field for a leadership role in golf once again. The 1987 Ballon d'Or winner and football legend has returned as Tournament Director of the KLM Open, which takes place from June 4-7 at The International in Amsterdam.

According to Bunkered, the 63-year-old is serving as tournament director for the second year in a row at the Netherlands' biggest professional golf event. Gullit is taking an active, hands-on approach to the role.

"I see myself more as a director of atmosphere than a tournament director," he said. "The KLM Open should offer top-level sport, but also energy, enjoyment, and connection. Golf at the highest level, all with a smile."

The tournament is part of the 2026 DP World Tour schedule and features a prize purse of $2.75 million, along with 3,500 Race to Dubai points.

Gullit added, "This will be an edition full of orange energy. The KLM Open marks the start of the sporting summer, and you will feel that atmosphere throughout The International."

Gullit first picked up golf in the 1990s during his time in Milan, where teammates Marco van Basten and Frank Rijkaard were already playing. He's been hooked ever since and is now a 7-handicapper.

"Football is everything to me, but golf touches me differently," Gullit said. "The competition, the concentration and the game against yourself, top athletes recognize that immediately."

Defending champion Connor Syme returns alongside major champions Francesco Molinari and Danny Willett, plus 18-year-old U.S. Amateur champion Mason Howell. Two-time KLM winner and Dutch crowd favorite Joost Luiten leads the home charge.

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The event holds special meaning for the Amsterdam-born icon. Gullit returns to his hometown for the KLM Open, while Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary in 2026.

"The KLM Open is a wonderful event that brings together top sport and experience," he said. "And to be able to do this in the year in which my city celebrates its 750th anniversary makes it extra special."

The tournament is being played at The International near Amsterdam for the third year in a row. In 2027, it will move to Kennemer Golf & Country Club in Zandvoort.

That makes this year's event special because it is the last chance for the Amsterdam crowd to support Gullit on this course.

Golf Channel will air all four rounds live, starting on Thursday, June 4.

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Written by

Sneha Abraham

Edited by

Rudra Dubey