Poulter back to defend Singapore Open title

European Ryder Cup player Ian Poulter of England celebrates on the 14th hole after winning his singles match on the fourth day of the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in Newport, south Wales October 4, 2010.

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Briton Ian Poulter will defend his Singapore Open title next month, organisers of the $6 million event said on Wednesday.

The co-sanctioned Asian and European Tour event at the Sentosa Golf Club offers $1 million to the winner and is the joint richest event on the European Tour outside of the majors and the World Golf Championships.

"It is terrific news that Ian Poulter, a big crowd favourite, will be returning to Sentosa Golf Club to defend his ... Singapore Open title," Robert Morrice, chairman & CEO Asia Pacific of the title sponsors Barclays, said in a media release.

"His win last year is still fresh in the memory and given his form in the Ryder Cup I am sure he will be challenging for the trophy again this time."

Also taking part in the Nov. 11-14 event are the year's four major winners -- Masters champion Phil Mickelson, U.S. Open holder Graeme McDowell, U.S. PGA winner Martin Kaymer of Germany and British Open victor Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa.

(Writing by Patrick Johnston in Singapore; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)