The Aramco China Championship kicks off this Thursday at Mission Hills China with six Spanish players in contention, three of whom are playing for much more than just a tournament. We are, of course, referring to Blanca Fernández, Marta Sanz and María Hernández. This tournament marks the cut-off for players to save their tour cards, the Open de España serves as the season finale, but the Spanish players who receive invitations for the final event will not add to their card status as it is a no-cut tournament. Also competing on the Chinese course will be Nuria Iturrioz, Luna Sobrón, and Marta Martín, with their futures secured.
For Blanca Fernández, it is a true final. The Madrid native arrives at the penultimate event of the Ladies European Tour in the 67th position in the ranking, just within the safety zone, but she cannot afford to lose focus.
With two tournaments remaining, the calculation is simple: the top 70 save their tour cards for 2026, and Blanca is in… but only just, with a margin of 39 points over the 71st position. Making the cut would be a huge step towards sealing the deal, but a weekend out of the tournament, with all those behind her pushing, could complicate the outlook significantly.
Blanca has received an invitation to play in China and arrives at a moment of need despite having a solid rookie season after coming through the School.
Marta Sanz, who has also received an invitation, and María Hernández face a tougher challenge. Marta starts from the 101st position in the Order of Merit, with 158 points, 115 behind the Thai player April Angurasaranee, who currently marks the cut at the 70th position with 273 points. To really get close, she would need to finish among the top six; to ensure her stay, likely a top 4 or top 5. There is no room for calculation without a great result, but this week she has the opportunity that the calendar does not always provide: she plays, and she can score.
A very similar situation for María Hernández. She is in the 106th position with 145 points, a bit further away, but with three tournaments ahead (including this one and the Open de España). In her case, a top 5 at Mission Hills could bring her back into the fight.
In summary, Blanca defends her position, Marta and María are chasing it. The Aramco China Championship casts its lots.
