The Most Prestigious Polo Tournaments in the World & Their History
Polo has long been dubbed the “game of kings,” and nowhere is that regal legacy more evident than in its most prestigious tournaments. These events aren’t just games—they’re celebrations of skill, tradition, and horsepower, drawing the world’s best players and passionate spectators alike. From sun-soaked fields in Argentina to royal grounds in England, let’s explore the history and allure of the top polo tournaments that define the sport. At Krono Polo, we’re proud to be part of this vibrant legacy, crafting gear that honors polo’s past while equipping its future stars.
1. Argentine Open Championship (Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo)
Where: Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
When: November–December
History: Known as the “granddaddy” of polo tournaments, the Argentine Open began in 1893 and is the pinnacle of the sport. Held at the Campo Argentino de Polo—often called the “Cathedral of Polo”—it’s the final jewel in Argentina’s Triple Crown. With a handicap of 40 goals, the teams here are the best of the best, featuring legendary families like the Heguy and Pieres dynasties.
Why It’s Prestigious: Argentina is polo’s global powerhouse, producing top players and ponies. Winning the Open is like claiming an Olympic gold medal—it’s the ultimate test of skill and strategy.
Fun Fact: The trophy’s been hoisted by players wielding mallets not unlike the ones we design at Krono Polo—crafted for precision and power on fields just like these.
2. U.S. Open Polo Championship
Where: Wellington, Florida, USA
When: March–April
History: First played in 1904, the U.S. Open is the most coveted title in American polo. It moved to the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington in 2007, cementing Florida as the sport’s U.S. hub. The tournament has seen its share of drama, from wartime pauses to epic comebacks.
Why It’s Prestigious: With a 26-goal handicap limit, it attracts international talent and showcases North America’s growing polo scene. It’s fast, fierce, and a proving ground for rising stars.
Krono Polo Tie-In: We’ve seen our mallets swing through Wellington’s fields, helping players chase that iconic silver cup.
3. Queen’s Cup
Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor, England
When: May–June
History: Established in 1960 at the Guards Polo Club, founded by Prince Philip, the Queen’s Cup is British polo’s crown jewel. Named for Queen Elizabeth II, who often presented the trophy, it’s steeped in royal tradition. The club’s proximity to Windsor Castle only adds to its mystique.
Why It’s Prestigious: A 22-goal handicap event, it draws elite teams from across the globe to England’s lush green pitches. It’s as much about prestige as it is about play—think high tea meets high stakes.
Did You Know? The elegance of the Queen’s Cup inspires us at Krono Polo to blend tradition with innovation in every piece of gear we create.
4. Hurlingham Open
Where: Hurlingham Polo Association, Buenos Aires, Argentina
When: October–November
History: Dating back to 1922, the Hurlingham Open is the second leg of Argentina’s Triple Crown. Named after the Hurlingham Club, which helped standardize polo rules in the 19th century, it’s a proving ground for teams vying for the Argentine Open.
Why It’s Prestigious: With a 40-goal handicap, it’s a showcase of raw talent and teamwork. The competition is fierce, and the history runs deep—many consider it a preview of the Palermo showdown.
Fun Fact: The mallet’s role in these tight matches is critical, and we at Krono Polo take pride in crafting tools worthy of such historic fields.
5. Jaipur Polo Season (India)
Where: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
When: December–January
History: Polo’s roots in India trace back centuries, tied to the cavalry and maharajas. The Jaipur Polo Season, centered at the Rajasthan Polo Club, revives this heritage with matches like the Rajputana Cup. It’s less a single tournament and more a cultural spectacle, often played on fields once ruled by royalty.
Why It’s Prestigious: It’s a living link to polo’s origins, blending sport with pageantry—think elephants, turbans, and thundering hooves. Players from around the world join Indian talent for a unique experience.
Krono Polo Note: We love how Jaipur celebrates polo’s past, inspiring us to honor the sport’s craftsmanship in every mallet we make.
Why These Tournaments Matter
These events aren’t just about winning—they’re about legacy. They’ve shaped polo’s rules, elevated its stars, and kept its traditions alive. For players, they’re a chance to etch their names in history. For fans, they’re a front-row seat to a sport that’s equal parts grace and grit.
At Krono Polo, we’re inspired by these tournaments every day. Whether it’s the precision demanded in Palermo or the elegance of Windsor, our gear is designed to meet the needs of players chasing that next big win—or just enjoying a casual chukker. Polo’s history is rich, and its future is bright, and we’re thrilled to be along for the ride.
Watch or Play?
Can’t make it to Buenos Aires or Windsor? Many of these tournaments are streamed online, or you can catch highlights on platforms like X. Better yet, find a local club and swing a mallet yourself—maybe one from Krono Polo—to feel the thrill firsthand. Who knows? You might just be the next name in polo’s storied history.