Scott Vincent put Zimbabwe golf on the map by winning the 2022 Order of Merit on The International Series and securing a place on the lucrative LIV Golf League. By securing his place in the Lock Zone this season, the top-24 players in the star-studded LIV Golf League this season,  he perhaps best illustrated how the Series and the Asian Tour is offering a clear pathway for players from all over the world.

Vincent’s example highlights the appeal of The International Series to players from across the globe, and his brother Kieran and young American star Andy Ogletree are among those hoping to follow in his footsteps.

With the innovative new LIV Golf Promotions event offering an additional three places on the LIV Golf League, there is even more at stake at the top of The International Series Order of Merit leaderboard, as 30+ players will have the chance to enter the unique qualifying event that takes place in Abu Dhabi from 8-10 December.    

Golf Digest Middle East recently caught up with Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series, to check out the impact of the ‘elevated events’ on the Asian Tour.

“The prize-money influx has been huge to the Asian Tour, thanks to LIV Golf’s input and The International Series helping to take the Asian Tour to new and exciting venues around the world,” he said.

“The money on offer has really helped us become a real elite tour alongside the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and LIV Golf. You only need to look at the players that are now coming to compete in these events — from traditional Asian venues like Thailand, India, Singapore and Vietnam to the newer arrivals in England, Scotland and this week in Hong Kong.” 

Rahul is not wrong. You only need to look at the entry list for this week’s International Series Hong Kong Open to see how far things have come in a short time.

Talor Gooch, Cameron Smith, Taichi Kho and Miguel Tabuena pictured during a photocall with the Hong Kong Open trophy. Asian Tour

Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters winner, and 2010 US Open winner Graeme McDowell join LIV Golf headliners Harold Varner III and Belgian Thomas Pieters for the long-running tournament, first held in 1959, which has a boosted prize fund of $2 million.

Other big-name players including 2022 Champion Golfer of the Year Cam Smith, two-time Hong Kong Open champion Wade Ormsby, Hong Kong Asian Games gold medallist and the first local player to win an Asian Tour title at the World City Championship in March, Taichi Kho, and LIV Golf winner Eugenio Chacarra.

Oh, and then there is the newly crowned LIV Golf Individual Champion Talor Gooch joining the field for the first Hong Kong Open to be contested since 2020.

Montana Pritchard/LIV Golf

“We moved into Africa and England with The International Series in 2022, then across the Middle East and into Scotland in 2023,” Rahul added. “Now we are beginning to see a successful breed of players who can compete at the highest level, with Scott and Kieran [Vincent], Andy [Ogletree] only a few that can reach the very top.

“This coming schedule will only be more inclusive, and hopefully we can see more Asian Tour players getting into major spots and other elite contests.

“The biggest thing I have noticed is that players have no reason to leave the Asian Tour, with so many opportunities on offer.

“Also we now have the Asian Development Tour opening the door to younger, up-and-coming stars, allowing them to compete at a high level before they take the next step up.”

With the world literally at their feet, where is next for The International Series?

“That is a great question,” said Rahul. “I would say ‘local’ as events such as Morocco and Egypt [on the original International Series schedule] have had a major impact, and allowing us to include and help develop, more locally based players that wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to compete on this level.

“We have already seen Tom Kim go on to great things on the PGA Tour thanks to his upbringing on the Asian Tour and expansion ensures we go truly global, and try to tap as much talent as we can.

“The key to remember is we are not competing with other tours but trying to create opportunities — perhaps The International Series can head to North America and Continental Europe. But — with the LIV Golf playoffs still to come in Abu Dhabi in November, it has already been an incredible ride.”

Main image: Rahul Singh with Asian Tour CEO Cho Minn Thant. Supplied

The post Rahul Singh: We are International players now appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

You can party with your loved ones and get in a few swings in a unique atmosphere as we bring 2023 to a close, with a laser show, DJ and all your favourite bites and drinks at the hottest place in town.

Unlimited selected beverages are yours to ring in the new year and start 2024 with a bang, with early-bird bookings going fast. Festive parties start from AED 299 per person.

If you purchase before December 15, you will receive AED 100 off your NYE package for Levels 2, 3 (T&Cs apply). Level 1 is also available for AED 1,500 per bay for up to 6 persons.

• Pricing (min of 4 pax per bay, max of 6 pax)
• Level 2 and 3 AED 799 pp house beverage package, AED 599 soft drinks package and under 12s are AED 329
• Premium Bay AED 899 pp house beverage package, AED 699 soft drinks package and under 12s are AED 429

VIP Suite Experience (10am – 1am)

If you want to make a special evening even more special, the intimate VIP Suites will make it a night to remember.

Lux Suite (Level 1) for up to 20 guests

• AED 12,000
• 2 Topgolf hitting bays with unlimited gameplay
• Drinks: Unlimited select beverages, cocktails and soft drinks
• Food: AED 2,000 credit redeemable from a la carte menu
• Garden access

Executive Suite (Level 2) for up to 20 guests

• AED 25,000
• 2 Topgolf hitting bays with unlimited gameplay
• Drinks: Private bar with unlimited deluxe beverages, cocktails, soft beverages and mocktails
• Food: Pass-around canapes on arrival, premium buffet with live carving and seafood stations, selection of mini desserts
• Private smoking balcony

Chairman Suite (Level 3) for up to 20 guests

• AED 30,000
• 2 Topgolf hitting bays with unlimited gameplay
• Drinks: Private bar with unlimited deluxe beverages, cocktails, soft beverages and mocktails
• Food: Pass-around canapes on arrival, premium buffet with live carving and seafood stations, selection of mini desserts
• Private smoking balcony

If you cannot wait for the bells, there is always Christmas one week earlier.

From 11am until 2pm on December 25, Topgolf Dubai’s Christmas Brunch is the place to be. With beverages on arrival ahead of a traditional Christmas platter bay-side, you can enjoy Christmas Day golf-style, with more unlimited select beverages throughout the afternoon. You can sing along to a live DJ as you eat bay-side — and take advantage of a fantastic range of kids’ activities to keep the whole family happy as you work on that shot. Santa has promised to swing by himself!

• AED 499 inclusive of select house beverage
• Soft beverages package at AED 329
• AED 129 for children below 12 years old

Sometimes it is tough to get free on those specific dates, but Topgolf still has you covered.

Until the end of December, the range can sort you out — family, office, sports team or besties. You can enjoy two hours of game-play and a delicious selection of festive sharing platters and Christmas hats to top off your experience.

• AED 479 per person (6 people per bay)

Topgolf, Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills 2. Tel: (0)4 371 9999. Email: info@topgolfdubai.ae. topgolfdubai.ae

The post Bring in 2024 with a swing at Topgolf Dubai appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

Golf Digest Middle East caught up with The R&A’s Phil Anderton and Neal Graham to discuss the vision of the game in the region

The R&A’s ambition is to inspire future generations to say: ‘I love golf’

Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer

How has the role of The R&A changed and expanded in recent times?
The R&A governs the sport of golf worldwide alongside the USGA who have responsibility in the US and Mexico. We have responsibilities for governing the Rules of Golf, staging The Open and AIG Women’s Open as well as elite amateur championships and developing the sport.

The R&A has changed significantly over the last few years and we continue to evolve as an organisation. We have modernised The Rules of Golf and made them more inclusive through the introduction of Rule 25 which allows players with specific disabilities to play fairly with players who have no disabilities, the same disability or a different type of disability.

We introduced a unified global handicap system for the first time, we have enhance The Open and the AIG Women’s Open and crucially we implemented a modern and proactive business models which has given us financial stability meaning we can double our investment into the sport to £200 million over a 10-year period.

We are now three years into a new five-year strategy where we are focused on achieving our vision for the sport which is that golf is open to all people. We continue to be leaders for the sport encouraging it to modernise, change and adapt to a rapidly changing world. Golf has a golden opportunity post-pandemic where more than ever people want to enjoy healthy, social and fulfilling leisure pursuits. Now is our time to act to ensure more people are playing more golf well into the future.

Over the next five years we are placing particular emphasis on women and girls golf, sustainable golf practices, the promotion of golf and it’s health benefits as well as alternate formats of the game and modernised facilities. Our real ambition is to inspire current and future generations to say ‘I love playing golf’.

The R&A looks to encourage even more women to play golf and work in the industry

I have seen the number of golfers rise significantly, especially in recent years. How is The R&A helping grow the game?
Our recent participation figures show that golf continues to thrive post-pandemic. In 2022 there were an additional ten million golfers playing the sport worldwide, excluding the US and Mexico, since 2016, which is an increase of 34 per cent. There are now 39.6 million on-course adult golfers, across 9 and 18 holes, with the top-five golfing nations, outside of the US and Mexico, being Japan, Canada, Korea, England and Germany.

What is really exciting is that women now make up almost a quarter of adult registered golfers, demonstrating the positive impact of initiatives focused on promoting greater diversity and inclusivity in golf. I was delighted to note that recently the UAE became the first country in the world to have all its golf clubs sign The R&A Women in Golf Charter. I will be keen to see the impact this has on the growth of women’s golf in the country.

The participation growth has been aided by the important work of golf bodies like The R&A and Emirates Golf Federation do to drive participation initiatives and increase awareness of the benefits of the sport. There remains significant interest in golf and while we recognise that there are economic challenges due to cost of living pressures, it is important for everyone involved to do their best to keep existing golfers in the sport as well as continuing to drive new participants.

Golf it! is designed to be family friendly and encourage new golfers into the sport

As I have mentioned golf has a golden opportunity and it is important that we capitalise on that. Already we have launched initiatives that take The R&A down new avenues including the opening of Golf It! The R&A’s new community-based golf and entertainment facility in Scotland. It’s a new concept which is set to make golf more accessible and inclusive for golfers and non-golfers alike. It was launched in August and has already seen huge success with over two million balls hit on the range in the first three months of operation. We see Golf It! as a blueprint for how a modern golf facility should be and hope that  more Golf It! style facilities will be created further afield.

The R&A’s Golf is Good campaign features international football star Gareth Bale

Golf and health has also been a significant focus of The R&A through ‘Golf is Good’, a new global project that we piloted in Wales last summer in partnership with Wales Golf. Featuring R&A global ambassador Gareth Bale, it used recent scientific research to promote the health and well-being benefits of playing the sport through cutting-edge animation. It is now being rolled out globally through other national associations and golfing bodies. The campaign in Wales produced positive results with 65 per cent of current golfers who had seen golf and health advertising playing more golf than usual in 2022, compared to 48% of current golfers who had not seen the advertising. Furthermore, 73 per cent of current on-course golfers were likely to play more golf because of the campaign.

Global superstar Niall Horan, a new initiative by The R&A, and Modest Golf to boost participation

Another significant project that we launched this summer, with the support of R&A global ambassador and music star Niall Horan, was Golf.Golf which encourages people to learn to play golf at a diverse range of golf facilities across Scotland. The initiative has been developed using extensive research into how to attract new people to the sport and is targeted specifically at those who already had or have an active interest in sporting activity but not necessarily in golf. The Golf.Golf digital platform provides an easy-to-use searchable list of all participating venues. Prospective players – from beginners to those who want to pick up the sport again – can use the platform to find their local venue and book sessions directly.

And the key objectives to help sustain and expand this growth through The R&A?
Our number one objective over the next five years is to increase the number of people playing all formats of the golf and get them playing more often. It is this objective which has driven projects like ‘Golf is Good’, Golf.Golf and Golf It!

These projects are all driven by extensive market research. We then take this research and create programmes which have been piloted in particular markets. We can then review and modify where necessary but more importantly we can take those programmes and work with other national golf associations to launch them in other countries. I think this is the real value The R&A can bring to golf internationally. We have the resources to undertake the research, to make sure programmes are evidence-based and then help golf associations with the local knowledge to deliver these programmes in their own countries.

And specifically in the Middle East region — how are you reaching more budding golfers?
The Middle East has become synonymous with elite level professional golf and even amateur golf with the recent staging of the World Amateur Team Championships. It is also a favourite golf holiday destination for many people. However, compared to many regions around the world, golf in the Middle East is still in the early stages of its participation development. But this also presents one of the greatest opportunities for growth worldwide and we are starting to see some very positive participation trends. Our recent global participation report shows that 9 & 18 hole golfer numbers in 2022 have risen by 62 per cent compared to 2020, by 100 per cent compared to 2016 and by 223 per cent compared to 2012. So I think we should acknowledge the successful efforts of the national golf associations in the Middle East to grow participation.

To help golf in the Middle East to continue to grow and to assist the national golf associations to take advantage of the current opportunity, The R&A has appointed Neal Graham as Regional Development Manager. He supports The R&A’s development strategy to engage and lead more effectively by working with national golf associations and other key stakeholders to drive the development of the sport within the Middle East. He provides organisations with support and advice in relation to grassroots initiatives, coaching, on and off-course facilities, pathways and high performance development, and staging professional and amateur championships.

Now almost a year into having a dedicated staff member in the Middle East, The R&A has seen the UAE become the first country to have all golf clubs sign the Women in Golf Charter, the introduction of a pilot of The R&A’s Unleash Your Drive in Schools programme and shortly we are about to host The R&A Middle East Golf Leadership Forum during the DP World Tour Championship.

Neal Graham. Ahmed Abdelwahab / Motivate Media Group

Neal Graham, Middle East and India Regional Development Manager

What is the active role The R&A takes to provide assistance in the region?
As Phil mentioned, The R&A works closely with the national golf associations and key stakeholders to support their development plans.  Since I commenced this role, my focus has been on engaging with the national golf associations in the Middle East,  listening and understanding the golfing landscape in their regions. Working together we have then identified key areas The R&A can support to develop programmes that make golf more appealing, accessible and inclusive.

In the UAE, working alongside the Emirates Golf Federation we identified the opportunity to create a pathway to introduce more children to golf. So, we are particularly excited to launch The R&A Unleash Your Drive in Schools programme in collaboration with the Golf Foundation, which is a six week beginner golf programme for students that can be delivered by teachers thanks to training from PGA professionals, easy to use resources and equipment which includes plastic golf clubs and soft foam golf balls. At the end of the six week programme students will have learnt the basics of golf as well as nine mental toughness skills which are integrated into the programme to positively impact their wellbeing. Those who wish to develop their golf skills further can join the Emirates Golf Federation junior programmes or those at local golf clubs.

Recently, we conducted workshops at Yas Links Abu Dhabi and the Tommy Fleetwood Academy at Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai. We had attendees from the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan and Lebanon, so we will start to see The R&A’s Unleash Your Drive in Schools Programme rolled out in the coming months.

Following on from the success of the schools programme, we are also aiming to launch the Golf Sixes League in Abu Dhabi to provide children with another opportunity in their golfing journey. Golf Sixes League is a proven junior golf concept which The R&A collaborates on across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.

Tell us more about the upcoming R&A Middle East Golf Leadership Forum
The R&A Middle East Golf Leadership Forum will take place during the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai on Thursday November 16.

The purpose of the forum is to gather both industry and non-industry stakeholders from the Middle East region to network and collaborate on three key topics; golf and health, sustainability in golf and inclusion in golf.

Each session to being moderated by a leading figure and will feature panellists who can share with the audience their personal insights and experiences. We are delighted to be joined by Dr Andrew Murray, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of the European Tour Group, Chris Gray, Head of Sustainable Agronomy – Asia-Pacific for The R&A and Tony Bennet, Head of Disability and Inclusion – IGF, President of EDGA and PGA Master Professional.

We hope to motivate and inspire the golf industry, to share best practices amongst colleagues but also to look at how golf can learn from other successful sports.

All 22 golf clubs in the United Arab Emirates have signed The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter. It becomes the first nation to achieve the feat

The R&A has a strong focus on women and girls golf, how are you bringing that to the Middle East?
The R&A is committed to increasing the number of women and girls both playing golf and working in the industry. In 2018 The R&A Women in Golf Charter was launched to inspire an industry-wide commitment to developing a more inclusive culture within golf. Since then over 1,300 organisations in 75 countries have signed the Charter. Something that all golfers within the UAE should be very proud of, is that earlier this year the UAE became the first country to have all golf clubs sign the Charter. Each club has set out its commitment to developing women’s golf at their facility and long term I believe we will start to see the number of women golfers in the UAE increase because of this initiative.

The UAE also now has five women from the industry participating in The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Programme which is aimed at supporting the development and progression of women who have the potential to become future leaders.

Nada Mir of Qatar (L) and Vanessa Richani of Lebanon (Ri) became the first players from their countries to compete in the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship

At an elite amateur level, we have also seen golfers from the Middle East start to emerge. This year The R&A staged the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific in Singapore with 85 players from 22 countries in the field. For the first time this year there was a competitor from Lebanon and Qatar in the Championship which has helped to inspire more women and girls in those countries to take up the sport. 

And Greenkeeping training is also in the pipeline?
The R&A has partnered with the Asian Golf Industry Federation and the New Zealand Sports Turf Institute to provide a Certificate in Greenkeeping programme available to greenkeepers across the UAE.  This programme is crafted for golf course staff who may not have formal education related to the knowledge and skills required to operate safely and efficiently as a greenkeeper on a golf course. The blended workplace learning will allow the students to apply the technical skills and processes learned to a variety of turf situations under the supervision of a qualified workplace supervisor throughout the one year duration of the course. The introductory course will kick start the programme at the The Montgomerie Golf Club from Monday 27th November to Friday 1st December.

Off course facilities are inspiring more people onto the golf course

There are many off-course facilities too, popping up. How does this help beginners get into the game?
The R&A’s research has shown across the globe that over a third of on course golfers were inspired to play on course golf by playing alternative formats of the sport.

The rise in popularity of off course facilities such as indoor simulator golf, adventure golf, mini golf, and driving range golf with tracker technology has a number of benefits to aid beginners getting into the sport.  Firstly, they attract a much larger non-golf audience who traditionally would have not engaged in golf.  The variety of the facilities and experiences on offer can assist in engagement being maintained.  The facilities are friendly focused and are able to attract all demographics.  We are fortunate that many of the off course facilities in the UAE offer professional instruction on site to assist golfers develop their game further and make the transition to the course should they wish to.

Off-course and on-course facilities working together on initiatives when able will help improve engagement for golfers and as a result increase the awareness of the sport and breakdown traditional perceptions.

The post The R&A reaches out in the Middle East appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

The Englishman had recently set up home in Dubai with his young family, was fresh off his most recent triumph at the Nedbank Golf Challenge and had just launched his new Academy at Jumeirah Golf Estates. 

All of this was before he played a pivotal part in Team Europe’s stunning victory over the United States in the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club just outside Rome. 

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Golf Digest Middle East caught up with Fleetwood on the steps of his Academy to reflect on a landmark year. 

“It has been a great year for me. I have been spending a lot of time here at the academy, now that I live here,” he said. “I have so much pride is seeing how everything has progressed over the past year. I am watching the amount of new players take up the game, while also seeing more established golfers progress with their game. Their passion for the game has been amazing to watch and be part of. 

“Wanting to help all these players with their game and with my team has been brilliant to be part of.”

Relocating to Dubai has helped Fleetwood realise his ambitions on and off the course. 

“I am still chasing my own dreams, but to help everyone I can just makes it more worthwhile,” he added. “I do enjoy being a part of passing on what information I can. I am not a coach by any means but I do enjoy being around the game. If there are people around and are working on their game, I like to get into a conversation and do what happens naturally and pass on what I can. 

“Spending time here, I love it and being able to pass on what I have learnt is so rewarding — even if it is one person. Being part of the support team here, I get a lot of satisfaction out of that.” 

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Fleetwood is readily supported by his cast of professionals at Jumeirah Golf Estates, something he is more than happy to embrace.

“I am very, very fortunate to have the set of coaches and the staff we have in place here,” he said. “From the personalities to the professionalism, you can see the hard work they put in. I am still touring and travelling a lot, so the coaches here are the biggest part of the day-to-day operations and everyone’s experience here. I am so proud of the guys here and the great job they do and create such a thriving and safe environment here. And when I come back, I love being part of the group.” 

Despite his fame on the course, Fleetwood is not quite at the Tiger Woods level of getting recognition on the streets of Dubai. 

“I might get recognised around the Academy and the course here, but I am happy to settle at never quite being at that [Tiger] level,” he laughed. 

While Fleetwood is content with his lot, there are three more budding golfers in the family, with Tommy’s sons all showing a true talent for the game. 

“I think the biggest thing for our kids, all I want for them all is to have a passion for something,” said Fleetwood. “If it is golf, great, because I have a lot to give on that front, but whatever it is they choose, I just want them to feel passionate about what they do. 

“Whatever dreams they want to follow, I will support that. The boys are really into their golf, which is great, and I love to talk with them about their games. I like to work on their game more than my own sometimes. Especially Frankie, I started around the same age as he is now — except he is probably better than I was at that time. I see a lot of similarities in myself as a kid and all three of my boys. One question I get asked a lot is my dream playing partners, and it has to be my dad and my three kids, to see their passion for the game. As long as they dream then I am happy.”

Away from the Academy, Fleetwood was pivotal in reclaiming the Ryder Cup for Luke Donald’s Team Europe in Rome this past month, and the grin on his face let’s you know it will forever be a treasured memory, sinking the winning putt as Europe secured a
16.5-11.5 victory. 

Darren Carroll/Getty Images

Just like in Paris, Fleetwood struck one of the most iconic celebration poses in Italy, and it will go on to adorn clubhouses walls across the continent in the years to come. 

“This one felt, from my own Ryder Cup experiences, more special,” he said. “Paris was my first one, then we had the humiliation at Whistling Straits. Paris, I had such an amazing time playing with Fran [Molinari], then we had a thrashing at Whistling Straits. From the guys that were on that team, to then have the motivation to win the trophy back as soon as we could, so that was what made it more special.

“We wanted to do ourselves justice and we had a point to prove after the huge loss. 

“For me to have that winning moment — to win as a team is such an amazing feeling — but I think the feeling of regaining it in that moment was amazing. There is no doubt that the American team and the era of their golf is so strong right now, so to beat them was so satisfying.

“To be in the moment and in that time, to be the one that got the winning point, was very, very special and something we will remember for the rest of our lives. You start out on Friday morning when it is ‘go time’, and that feeling that you all have, pulling that shirt on and heading to the first tee, it is so intense, and as you grow into the week, you feel so happy and so proud of each other to be part of Team Europe. And I mean not just the 12 players, there is the captain, vice-captains, the backroom staff and the legacy of the team as well. To just be part of it is amazing.”

Even the best golfers have their off-days however, and Fleetwood had a somewhat wayward drive as he marked the one-month-to-go countdown to the season-ending DP World Tour Championships at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

“It didn’t land in someone’s swimming pool so it wasn’t as far left as first feared,” he said. “But it wouldn’t have been an ideal first tee shot at the DP World Tour Championship. But I struck it well!” 

The DPWTC brings the curtain down on the season, and Fleetwood is keen to meet up with his Ryder Cup teammates in Dubai.

“It will be cool to catch up again as it is a celebration of the year as a whole for everyone on tour,” he said. “Everyone who has set out from Day 1 on the tour will be aiming to finish on a high and to have us all together will be great for the tournament and also it will be so exciting to be all back together. Once you are in that team, is stays with you forever.”

Main images: Naomi Baker/Getty Images

The post Tommy Fleetwood comes into the DP World Tour Championship as a winner in more ways than one appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

We also just witnessed the male and female amateurs stake a claim for the future at the World Amateur Team Championships in the UAE capital.

Of course, we know there will be company aplenty in 2024 as the Ras Al Khaimah Championship returns at Al Hamra Golf Club in January alongside the new Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Resort.

As if that wasn’t enough to sate the golf-hungry fans in the UAE, we have another new arrival as the embryonic LIV Golf League takes another step on its journey. 

Following the drama at the LIV Golf Individual Championship showdown at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club in Jeddah, where Talor Gooch and Brooks Koepka took the plaudits, and then the Team Championship finale at Trump Doral’s Blue Monster in Miami, where Bryson DeChambeau’s Crushers stole the show, there is still some unfinished business. 

Brooks picked up around $8 million for claiming the title at Royal Greens — and finishing third in the season-long Individual Championship points race behind Gooch ($18 million bonus for his stellar efforts on Sunday) and Aussie superstar Cameron Smith.

However, Koepka Jnr — younger brother and fellow Smash teammate Chase — has a more uncertain future as he was relegated as one of the bottom four in the season-long LIV standings. He finished last in the field in Jeddah and accrued only one point all season. He is now relegated out of the league along with Jed Morgan, James Piot and Sihwan Kim. The younger Koepka posted just one top-25 finish in 13 starts this season.

There is still a way back for that quartet as they will now head to the Promotions event in Abu Dhabi, where they will take on the best from the Asian Tour and beyond, with three spots up for grabs at the National Course.

The International Series winner — which looks like Andy Ogletree as we stand — earns an automatic spot, while a huge field will fight for the three remaining spots. Players from the Asian Tour will be joined by the top 200 eligible in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), and the top 20 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, the amateur champions from the United States, Great Britain, Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. All are expected to line up in Abu Dhabi. In addition, players ranked sixth through 32nd on the International Series Order of Merit will compete for the three-round, winner-takes-all event from December 8-10.

After the first round, there will be a mammoth cut so that only the top 20 and ties will play on Saturday in Abu Dhabi. They will be joined by the four LIV Golf bottom guys — Koepka, Morgan, Piot and Kim.

The final round will be played over 36 holes and cut to the top 16 players. While Ogletree looks like a shoo-in, everything else is up for grabs.

Before all that, of course, we have a lot to be settled elsewhere.

The Ladies European Tour Race to Costa del Sol will be settled in the Spanish sun following the Aramco Team Series finale in Saudi Arabia, the Asian Tour hopefuls will also decide their Order of Merit and the opportunity to join the high-rolling LIV Golf League and, of course, the DP World Tour comes into Dubai for their final event at Jumeirah Golf Estates. 

The DP World Tour Championship serves as a bit of a doubleheader as Jon Rahm looks to defend his crown and go for a record fourth individual title, while Rory McIlroy will take aim at a fifth season-long coveted Race to Dubai gong. 

With Rahm and Rory meeting up with their winning fellow Team Europe Ryder Cup teammates, including Tommy Fleetwood, Sepp Straka, Bob MacIntyre, Shane Lowry, Viktor Hovland, Tyrrell Hatton and Matt Fitzpatrick following their now-famous victory at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club on the outskirts of Rome, there will certainly be a party feel around the Earth Course throughout the weekend of November 16-19, as the latest band of ‘brothers’ reunite in the UAE. 

Following on from his ‘bromance’ with Francesco Molinari in Paris the last time Europe claimed the trophy, Fleetwood was again the hero as it was up to him to nail the crucial putt that ensured Europe got their hands back on the beautiful little gold prize.

The US headed home having been handed a 16.5-11.5 hiding, but they are already plotting revenge when the visitors come to Bethpage Black in New York in 2025. 

This month, however, it will be all eyes on the UAE. 

With Europe captain Luke Donald sure to be on show proudly hoisting the Ryder Cup at Jumeirah Golf Estates, there will be many more memories to be made over the gruelling 72 holes of the Earth Course, etching another chapter in the UAE’s proud golfing history. 

For a few more weeks, this will be Europe’s home from home.

Main image: Matt Hazey

The post The UAE once again is flying the flag for the game of golf as the various tours’ seasons draw to a close in 2023 appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

Hong Kong Golf Club will welcome some of the game’s biggest names with the likes of Cameron Smith, Patrick Reed, Graeme McDowell, Harold Varner III, Thomas Pieters and LIV Golf ‘s 2023 Individual Champion Talor Gooch confirmed to compete alongside the Asian Tour’s finest from November 9-12.

The Fanling course will await the field, and it is no easy feat to get around safely.

The set-up is steeped in history, with three courses, the clubhouse itself dating back to 1918, the Open is now in its 62nd iteration and it will be the first time the golfers are back since the pandemic halted things in 2020. 

The New Course will be the challenge for the $2 million International Series event hopefuls, and itself was opened in 1931 as its ‘composite course’ measures 6,520 yards and, with the best of both the New and Old courses, it will certainly be a tough test! 

Main image: Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images

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If insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results, then call this guy insane. Because it takes him 12 attempts — yes, a DOZEN tries — before escaping the Old Course’s diabolical pit. He tries going forward, sideways, and finally exits out the back on his way to a “smooth 22”. Woof. Have a look — if you dare:

 

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Thank goodness that video was sped up or we don’t think we could have made it through the entire thing. That’s a real-life nightmare right there. Especially when you know one of your buddies is filming — and, understandably, giggling — during the whole ordeal. “The Road Hole at St Andrews claims another victim,” the narrator says. Indeed. And what makes it even worse is that he avoided the hazard getting to the green, but then putted into it. Rough.

Needless to say this guy took a lot of heat in the comments for his technique in the sand. So while he licks his wounds, might we suggest checking out a few of our bunker tips? We’re confident that you’ll get ’em next time, dude. In less than 12 tries, at least.

Main picture: The Road Hole at St Andrews. Golf Digest

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It is fair to say that the second LIV Golf season already stands the test of time and will live long in the memory. 

The embryonic tour took the bold step of expanding from seven events in its first season in 2022 — doubling to 14 showdowns, with a colossal $320 million on offer to the 48 contestants before we even think about the bonus money pocketed by Talor Gooch, Cameron Smith and Brooks Koepka. 

The memories are already in the locker, but let’s take a look back at some of the pivotal moments in an amazing season.

Howell’s fast start
Charles Howell III made Mexico his home from home as he romped to the inaugural LIV Golf League crown. Mayakoba was the venue, the American only shot two holes over par, and an eight-under 63 on Sunday saw him over the line.

Jon Ferrey/LIV Golf

Brooks is back
Brooks Koepka showed he was back to his best — well before his fifth major in the PGA Championship — at the Orlando LIV event in early April as he began a landmark season in style with his second LIV crown. 

Gooch gets going
Another dawn began in Adelaide as Talor Gooch proved his former 4 Aces captain, Dustin Johnson, wrong, and vindicated his switch to Bubba Watson’s RangeGoats line-up with a convincing victory in Oz. The event also saw another Smash man, Chase Koepka, make a piece of history as he aced the ‘Watering Hole’ and was showered in beer cans for his troubles.

Montana Pritchard/LIV Golf

Back to back
Gooch showed he was no flash in the pan, going back-to-back with another win in Singapore, before DJ bit back with his own victory in Tulsa.

Going on
By the time July rolled around, Gooch had victory No. 3 and was way ahead in the points standings. Harold Varner III had registered the win in Washington DC, but Gooch proved he is the best American on the road, with the Andalucia trophy under his belt. 

Cam time
The 2022 Open Champion Cameron Smith was not going to let Gooch get everything his own way and a win in London at Centurion made things interesting as the Aussie found his stride.

Four horses
Now it was getting to business time and there were four men looking to grab the Individual title — we had Gooch, Smith and Koepka, so who else would make the grade? We arrived at Greenbrier and Bryson DeChambeau stepped up in remarkable fashion, shooting a final-day insane 58 in the rain (he even had a bogey in there) to produce one of the most iconic moments of the year, leaping like a kid as history was made. 

Scott Taetsch/LIV Golf

Cam bounces back
Smith would not go quietly and launched himself to the top of the standings with a solid win at Bedminster, for the first time making Gooch look worried, with an $18 million bonus cheque on the line.

Bryson’s boom
Chicago was the next stop and DeChambeau proved why he was a serious contender for the Ryder Cup (he did not get selected) as he convincingly bagged LIV Golf win No. 2

The final showdown
Jeddah was a match made in heaven, as Gooch and Koepka slogged it out over 54 holes. DeChambeau (fourth) and Smith (second) faded in the Individual Championship as the weekend went on and Brooks took the weekend title on the second extra hole and secured third overall. Gooch was still smiling however as he took the Individual Championship title, with the bonus money going to his foundation to help bring on the next batch of stars.

Montana Pritchard/LIV Golf

TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL RESULTS

For Sunday’s Finals, all 48 players among the 12 teams competed in one round of stroke play, with all four players’ scores counting toward their team’s score. The four semifinal winners competed for places 1-4, with the teams defeated in the semifinals competing for places 5-8. The teams defeated in Friday’s quarterfinals competed for places 9-12. Of the prize money earned by each team, 60% goes to the team, with 10% going to each of the four participating players.

TIER 1

1. CRUSHERS (-11). Anirban Lahiri 65, Bryson DeChambeau 67, Charles Howell III 72, Paul Casey 73.
Prize money: $14,000,000

2. RANGEGOATS (-9). Bubba Watson 67, Talor Gooch 70, Thomas Pieters 70, Harold Varner III 72.
Prize money: $8,000,000

3. TORQUE (-6). Joaquin Niemann 66, David Puig 71, Sebastián Muñoz 72, Mito Pereira 73.
Prize money: $6,000,000

4. 4ACES (E). Peter Uihlein 69, Patrick Reed 71, Pat Perez 73, Dustin Johnson 75.
Prize money: $4,000,000

TIER 2

5. STINGER (-7). Dean Burmester 67, Branden Grace 67, Charl Schwartzel 73, Louis Oosthuizen 74.
Prize money: $3,250,000

6. FIREBALLS (-4). Carlos Ortiz 64, Eugenio Chacarra 73, Sergio Garcia 73, Abraham Ancer 74.
Prize money: $3,000,000

7. CLEEKS (+4). Martin Kaymer 72, Bernd Wiesberger 72, Richard Bland 74, Graeme McDowell 74.
Prize money: $2,750,000

8. HYFLYERS (+5). Cameron Tringale 70, Brendan Steele 71, Phil Mickelson 72, James Piot 80.
Prize money: $2,500,000

TIER 3

9. RIPPER (-5). Matt Jones 66, Jediah Morgan 71, Marc Leishman 73, Cameron Smith 73.
Prize money: $2,000,000

10. SMASH (E). Jason Kokrak 69, Brooks Koepka 70, Matthew Wolff 72, Chase Koepka 77.
Prize money: $1,750,000

11. MAJESTICKS (+4). Henrik Stenson 69, Ian Poulter 72, Lee Westwood 74, Sam Horsfield 77.
Prize money: $1,500,000

12. IRON HEADS (+5). Scott Vincent 70, Danny Lee 71, Kevin Na 73, Sihwan Kim 79.
Prize money: $1,250,000

Images: Jon Ferrey/LIV Golf

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The 15th edition will see the top 50 players in the Race to Dubai Rankings compete at the fifth and final Rolex Series event of the 2023 DP World Tour season.

The Earth Course will once again test the DP World Tour’s finest as we determine who will walk away with the trophy and the winner’s cheque at the $10 million showdown, and also find out who will claim the season-long Race to Dubai crown. 

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Mates, teammates and roommates will have to put the pals’ act to one side after Team Europe’s Ryder Cup heroics in Rome, as this one will be every man for himself. 

We will have at least 10 of Team Europe’s stars on show. Defending DP World Tour Champ Jon Rahm and Race to Dubai leader Rory McIlroy will be back in town for the season finale, while Ryder Cup teammates Matt Fitzpatrick, Tyrrell Hatton, Nicolai Højgaard, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, Robert MacIntyre, Sepp Straka and Tommy Fleetwood will all enter the event on a high after they all helped Europe defeat Team USA at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club last month to reclaim the Ryder Cup.

The only absentee is rookie and nailed-on future superstar Ludvig Aberg, who only turned professional a few months ago and therefore does not have enough points to make the top-50 field. The last Team Europe member, veteran Justin Rose, has some work to do in Qatar and South Africa if he is to get into the last event of the DP World Tour season. 

McIlroy is looking to join Rahm as the only player to win the DP World Tour Championship three times — the Spaniard is the defending champion and also won in 2017 and 2019, while McIlroy claimed the title in 2012 and 2015 — and the Northern Irishman is the defending Race to Dubai champ. 

“Playing at the DP World Tour Championship is always an amazing experience,” McIlroy said. “Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a lot of success in Dubai and at this event in particular. The fans have been great, it’s amazing to have that support out there for us. When you have the top 50 golfers from the DP World Tour, you know it is going to be a fantastic competition. I’ve won here on a couple of occasions, and I would love to be right there come Sunday with both trophies to my name.”

Luke Walker/Getty Images

Rahm added: “It’s no surprise I love coming back to Dubai and to this golf course for the DP World Tour Championship. To win here three times, it means a lot to me, and it’s always an honour to defend any title you have put your name to.

“It’s going to be fantastic week. The vibe in Dubai is great, the field is world-class, and the fans get behind the players, so I am looking forward to the challenge and hopefully, I can give them something to cheer about come Sunday afternoon.”

Tom Phillips, Head of the Middle East for DP World Tour is anticipating a great event. “The 15th edition of the DP World Tour Championship marks a remarkable journey of growth, from its inception to becoming one of the key tournaments in our global calendar. 

“The vibrant atmosphere created by passionate fans in Dubai is a testament to the unwavering excitement that surrounds this event, making it a true celebration of golf, as well as being an entertaining day out for all spectators.

“Following Team Europe’s thrilling Ryder Cup victory in Rome, I am delighted Matt Fitzpatrick, Tyrrell Hatton, Nicolai Højgaard, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, Robert MacIntyre, Sepp Straka and, of course, Tommy Fleetwood who joins us here, are confirmed for our season-ending tournament. We also have their Ryder Cup teammates Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm — our defending champion — already announced, so we cannot wait to see these world-class golfers all in action.”

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Fleetwood, who secured the Ryder Cup for Europe when he was guaranteed at least a half-point in his match against Rickie Fowler, added: “Dubai has a special place in my heart, both as my home away from England and the home to one of my academies.

“I’ve played a number of tournaments here at Jumeirah Golf Estates and I look forward to the 15th edition of the DP World Tour Championship in November. The fans have been unbelievable over the years and it has been amazing to witness it grow over time with all the activities available for kids and families, plus some pretty decent golfers.

“It’s an exciting tournament and I can’t wait to have some of my Ryder Cup teammates here as well, it is going to be another special week.”

The tournament will not only showcase the cream of the DP World Tour but also highlight the event’s commitment to a greener, more eco-conscious future. Building on foundations from previous years, this year’s Earth Lounge on the 16th hole will be fully powered by solar panels and hydrogen generators, resulting in a 100 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions, while Averda, the event’s official waste management company, will recycle 75 per cent of tournament waste.

DP World Tour Championship’s commitment extends beyond the course, with the continuation of the G4D Tour, further reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity. The G4D Tour Series Finale will be hosted on November 17, showcasing the leading gross-ranked players from the World Ranking for Golfers with a Disability.

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Daniel Van Otterdijk, Chief Communications Officer of Group Communications at DP World, said: “The 2023 DP World Tour Championship in Dubai is just around the corner, and it’s set to be an exhilarating season finale. This event marks our second year as the Title Partner of the DP World Tour, and what a fantastic two years it’s been.

“We’re excited to welcome the world’s best golfers back to Dubai for what promises to be an incredible conclusion to the season. The tournament holds special significance for DP World, and it’s also a standout on Dubai’s sporting and social calendar. It’s an event that caters to the entire family and gets better year on year. We can’t wait to see everyone at Jumeirah Golf Estates in just a month’s time.”

Main image: Jumeirah Golf Estates

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The DP World Tour Championship is upon us once again as Jon Rahm returns to defend his title.

All this and much, much more in the November 2023 edition of Golf Digest Middle East.

The issue is again free to our loyal audience. You can scroll through the ISSUU link provided here or download to your favourite device for later. Alternatively, pick up a copy at your favourite club. Whatever option you take, we hope you enjoy the read.

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