BY PETE COWEN
OUR LOCATIONS
YAS MALL
UMM SUQEIM STREET, DUBAI
MALL OF THE EMIRATES
EMIRATES HILLS
A LANDMARK WEEK IN DELHI
As the season edges towards its conclusion and the DP World Tour Play-Offs gather pace, the spotlight this month fell firmly on India - where history was made at the inaugural DP World India Championship.
Bringing this event to life required an enormous collective effort, but as ever, it’s the stories of our star players that define a week.
To have the reigning Masters Champion and first European Career Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy in the field was a milestone moment, but he was joined by a world-class line-up that helped make Delhi Golf Club the epicentre of global golf for one unforgettable week.
A Fitting Champion for a New Chapter
By Sunday evening, the focus was firmly on Tommy Fleetwood, who capped an extraordinary season with another memorable victory. Having already claimed both the Tour Championship and FedExCup double on the PGA TOUR and delivered a standout performance in Europe’s Ryder Cup win at Bethpage, Tommy added a new chapter to his 2025 story with this win in Delhi.
To see a DP World Ambassador lift the trophy in the inaugural event was the perfect reflection of their deep and growing commitment to the game – and a moment that felt significant for everyone involved with the Tour.
Tommy’s popularity is universal, not only for his talent but for the way he carries himself – something he reflected on in his winner’s interview: “I pride myself in trying to have the best possible attitude I can at all times, even when things aren’t going to plan.”
It certainly did go to plan in Delhi, where a closing 65 secured a two-shot victory over Japan’s Keita Nakajima. But perhaps the most memorable moment came on the 18th green, when Tommy was joined by his son Frankie. The eight-year-old had told his dad earlier in the week that he’d never been there for one of his wins to run onto the 18th green, and as the final putt dropped, that wish came true.
Where Sport, Culture and Community United
Away from the course, one of the standout moments came on Friday night at DP World’s Diwali celebration, where Rory appeared in his
Masters Green Jacket alongside Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
It’s hard to overstate Sachin’s stature in India – a national hero and one of the greatest batsmen of all time. To have Rory and Sachin together on stage, joined by another icon, Kapil Dev, was a genuine meeting of sporting worlds and a proud celebration of excellence, both in golf and beyond.
India remains a hugely important market – both for DP World and for the growth of golf - and with around 30 million people in Delhi alone, the potential is enormous. The inaugural DP World India Championship was a landmark week that brought together worldclass golf, cultural celebration, and partnership excellence.
As we now turn our attention back to the DP World Tour Play-Offs and the season-ending finale here in the UAE, it’s fitting that the momentum and spirit of Delhi will carry us through to the close of another remarkable year.
Ben Cowen
Chief Tournament and Operations Officer, DP World Tour
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14 THE HUNGER GAMES
Pete Cowen reminds young pros that before luxury cars and trophies comes grit, graft and hunger. The MENA Golf Tour is where future stars earn their stripes.
16 THE BACK 9: INSIDE THE ROPES
Three national championships, the return of the Rolex Series, and a lucrative new event saw the Back 9 once again become the heartbeat of the global golf calendar
20 MCILROY’S DUBAI STORY
Rory McIlroy and the DP World Tour Championship is a match made in heaven. Big moments, big crowds and Dubai sunshine — this is Rory’s favourite stage to shine.
26 THE DUDE BOWS OUT
After 501 DP World Tour appearances, Nicolas Colsaerts calls time on Tour life. From Ryder Cup magic to family moments — The Dude signs off with the class he’s renowned for.
32 THE WIN THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
Paul Waring looks back on his unforgettable Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship triumph, the PGA Tour dream it unlocked, and the shoulder injury stopping a fairytale return.
37 MURRAY’S SWING SPOTLIGHT
Andy Murray brings the same grit and game face to golf. We’ve studied his swing – the good, the quirky and the surprisingly silky.
Five Iron Dubai’s coowner Matthew Csillag is transforming the city’s golf scene with a vibrant, year-round, all-access hub for play and socialising.
Portugal sets the stage for the highly anticipated return of the MENA Golf Tour, with three standout venues providing championship drama, world-class facilities and unforgettable travel experiences for players, fans and media alike.
Blending elite coaching with positivity and purpose, she’s redefining learning through confidence, connection and a joyful approach to the game.
If you love a “hard work pays off” story, this one’s for you — England caps, MENA Golf Tour wins and a big leap on the horizon.
Big news for UAE golfers! Five redesigned holes reopen at Al Hamra Golf Club this November— find out what’s new and why it’s a must-play
THE OFFICIAL PETE COWEN COLUMN
As the DP World Tour season hurtles towards its finale and the world’s biggest names jostle for staggering prize funds in Dubai, it’s refreshing to glance across the ropes and remember how the journey to the top really begins. Because while one star is lifting the trophy at the DP World Tour Championship, the relaunched MENA Golf Tour will be teeing off once again – a proving ground buzzing with raw ambition and opportunity.
The numbers are impressive: $100,000 per event, quality venues and a schedule that gives aspiring professionals a genuine pathway. But what I love about tours like the MGT is not just the prize fund, or even the renowned conditioning of the courses. It’s the honesty. The scruffy edges. The reality check. It’s that vivid reminder of what the game looks like before courtesy cars, agents, entourages and executive lounges become part of the weekly routine. Here, talent travels by budget airline. Hunger is the currency. And nobody is flying private.
Where Stars Are Cooked — Not Served
Most players lining up on tours like this are hungry for money, and golf certainly dangles the carrot. But within the field, you’ll sometimes see something special – a player who wants to win more than they want to earn. That distinction is subtle but crucial. It’s the reason Matt Fitzpatrick and Robert MacIntyre used the very same MENA Golf Tour as a launchpad. Their early stages weren’t polished. They were carved by competition, not comfort.
The 2025 season gets going in November with a qualifying event at Troia Golf in Portugal, a beautiful Robert Trent Jones Snr. design set along the Atlantic coastline south of Lisbon. It’s a stern test: small greens, sandy rough, constant wind and no room to hide. But these qualifiers arrive at a time when many players are financially burnt out – straight off DP World Tour Q School and long seasons on the HotelPlanner
Tour. That’s when the credit card groans loudest. I’m pleased to see the MENA Golf Tour implement financial assistance packages, but players can – and must – help themselves, too.
Which brings me neatly onto something young professionals simply don’t think enough about: funding models. When I started out, I built one myself. Companies, friends, club members – they invested with structure, not sentiment. I raised £30,000. In return, 50% of my winnings went back until the total was repaid. Then it dropped to 20%, then 10%, then 5%. My investors were part of the journey. They had skin in the game. It was professional, not paternal.
Today, the days of freebies are gone. Supporters want involvement, not handouts. They want updates, transparency, and visibility. So if you’re a young pro, put their logo on your bag, tag them on social media, send monthly recaps. Make them feel essential. Don’t just take the money – build a team. Of course, there’ll always be one or two with bottomless family credit. But golf has a habit of favouring the hungry. Grain builds muscle; struggle builds character.
The Grind Behind the Glamour
Let me tell you: it’s not always glamorous. I could sit here and share thousands of stories – car shares across Europe with five of us wedged in, sleeping in the boot or the cheapest room we could find, eating whatever cost the least within a wedge shot of tomorrow’s tee time. It wasn’t romantic then, but looking back, it forged resilience.
That’s the point. The professional game doesn’t hand out golden tickets. Yes, the reward at the end is extraordinary – travel, prestige, sponsorship, financial security – but you have to push through the grind to reach it. On the subject of pushing, here’s one of the biggest misconceptions in modern golf: distance obsession. Everyone’s trying to hit it 350 yards. Yes, it’s spectacular if it’s in the middle of the fairway. But
more often than not, it’s in the rough, behind a tree, plugged in a bunker – or worse, out of bounds. Last month in India, Rory McIlroy chose to leave the driver in the locker. That decision alone speaks volumes. Golf isn’t about the most impressive first shot; it’s about the easiest second.
And once you turn professional, it stops being an extension of your hobby. It becomes a full-time job –minimum eight hours a day across every facet of game improvement. Spend more time on the areas you dislike. That’s where growth hides. You’ll never improve if you only polish the shiny bits.
Here’s another truth young players hate to hear: being a pure striker of the ball does not guarantee success. I’ve seen players who can shape it both ways, flight it at will, hit it miles – and yet cannot score when it matters. Scoring is an art, learned only under pressure. It lives on leaderboards, not in practice bays.
When the birdies start dropping, don’t panic. Too many players go into “protect mode”, nursing their card as though it’s porcelain. If you drain a series of ten footers never think the next one is going to miss. Believe in yourself and the hard work that has enabled you to find the centre of the cup.
And to every player teeing it up on the MENA Golf Tour this month, I say this: embrace the grind, feel the hunger, learn what scoring under pressure really feels like, and enjoy this incredible game for all it gives – and all it demands.
The dream lifestyle is out there. But if you want it? You’ll have to earn it.
Pete Cowen Master PGA Professional
2025 / 2026 Schedule
20-22 NOV 2025
25-27
02-04 DEC 2025
19-21 JAN 2026
03-05 FEB
03-05 MAR
09-11
The Story of the Back 9 A Rollercoaster Race to Dubai in 2025
Nine events. Eight countries. Eight different champions.
The 2025 Back 9 on the Race to Dubai delivered everything the DP World Tour hoped for when it introduced this midseason stretch just a year ago: global stars, historic venues, national pride, wild weather, emotional goodbyes, maiden moments and seasoned champions rising again.
The Back 9 was launched in 2024 with one goal – to bring together classic tournaments and iconic national opens in a concentrated window, adding narrative, momentum and meaning to the Road to the DP World Tour Play-Offs. Fast-forward to 2025, and the format has more than justified its creation.
Across ten weeks – with the small interruption of a Ryder Cup that gripped the sporting world – the DP World Tour’s most atmospheric venues formed the stage for this travelling golfing soap opera. With three national championships, the return of the Rolex Series, and a lucrative new event, the Back 9 once again became the heartbeat of the global golf calendar. For many, it represented the final surge to secure a prized place at the season-ending DP World Tour Play-Offs in the UAE.
Here’s how the drama unfolded…
Betfred
British Masters hosted by Sir Nick
Faldo
–
A Scandinavian Double Act
The Belfry, with its deep Ryder Cup history, again launched the Back 9 – and fittingly, the narrative centred around Ryder Cup qualification. Rasmus Højgaard’s task was simple on paper: finish in a two-way share of 29th or better to automatically seal his place on Luke Donald’s European team for Bethpage. After a steely Moving Day 69 and a composed final-round 71, the Dane secured T13 – and a likely ticket to golf’s biggest team stage.
But while Rasmus celebrated, it was fellow Scandinavian Alex Noren who lifted the trophy, ending a 7-year wait for his 11th DP World Tour title. Holding off Nicolai Højgaard and the fast-finishing Kazuma Kobori, Noren delivered a reminder that his class remains undimmed.
Omega European Masters –
Lawrence Returns to the Summit Crans-sur-Sierre once again stole hearts with postcard-worthy visuals and mountain-air drama. Thick fog wreaked havoc early, forcing marathon sessions for the field. Adrien Saddier surged into the lead after day two, but as the weekend unfolded, the past champions rose to the top.
Thriston Lawrence, already a winner here in 2022, produced a sparkling final-round 66 to claim his fifth DP World Tour title. Matt Wallace, Matt Fitzpatrick and Rasmus Højgaard all threatened, but the South African’s iron precision on the closing stretch proved decisive.
The week also brought a moment of reflection as France’s Mike Lorenzo-Vera, a fan favourite for his humour and honesty, bid an emotional farewell to the professional game at 40.
Amgen Irish Open –
A Dream Homecoming for
Rory
If there was ever a script written for drama, the Irish Open at The K Club delivered it. The crowds came in force, draped in green, white and gold, and they got exactly what they craved – a Rory McIlroy show.
One year after missing a winning eagle putt on the 72nd hole, McIlroy stood over another on the par-5 18th – this time draining a 27-footer to force a playoff with Sweden’s Joakim Lagergren. After matching birdies at the first two extra trips down 18, Lagergren faltered with a water-bound approach. McIlroy safely found the green and two-putted his way into delirious home celebration.
A Grand Slam year, electrifying crowds, and another Race to Dubai lead – Ireland had its hero again.
BMW PGA Championship –Noren Makes Swedish History
The return of the Rolex Series at Wentworth carried Ryder Cup spice, with 11 of Europe’s 12 Bethpage players teeing it up. Yet the headlines belonged once more to Alex Noren, fresh off Vice-Captain duties and riding a wave of confidence.
Locked with Adrien Saddier through a tense back-nine duel, Noren showed veteran composure, eventually defeating the Frenchman with a birdie in a playoff. The win not only sealed his second win in a month – it also made him the winningest Swedish golfer in DP World Tour history, surpassing Robert Karlsson and Henrik Stenson.
FedEx Open de France –Kim’s Breakthrough
With Le Golf National undergoing works, the French national open moved to Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche for the first time since 1982. The home crowd came with volume and passion, particularly with Brooks Koepka sharing the overnight lead.
But it was American Michael Kim who stole the show. A brilliant birdie-birdie run on 16 and 17 gave him breathing room, but his defining moment was a nerveless 16-foot par putt at the last to seal victory – his maiden DP World Tour title – by one shot over Elvis Smylie and Jeong-weon Ko.
Alfred
Dunhill
Links – MacIntyre
Masters the Storm Fresh off Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph, the Tour returned to Scotland for a rain-
lashed celebration of links golf. Storm Amy forced the event to 54 holes, but Robert MacIntyre thrived amid the chaos, carding three sublime 66s to win by four shots.
It was the first Scottish victory at the Alfred Dunhill Links since Colin Montgomerie in 2005, and MacIntyre’s composed final round at St Andrews cemented his growing stature as a star of European golf.
Open de España –
Penge Hits the Hat-Trick
From Scottish wind to Spanish sunshine, the Tour moved to Madrid where Marco Penge wrote his own chapter of Back 9 history. After a quiet week in Scotland, the English powerhouse returned with authority, becoming the first three-time winner of the 2025 season.
A play-off victory over Dan Brown sealed more than silverware – Penge locked up spots at The Masters and The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale.
DP World India Championship –Fleetwood’s Magical Year Continues
A new jewel in the Race to Dubai crown, the DP World India Championship attracted Ryder Cup winners and PGA TOUR stars for its debut at Delhi Golf Club. Among them: Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland, Brian Harman and Ben Griffin.
But once again, Tommy Fleetwood owned the moment. A sensational sixunder 65, fuelled by a burst of scoring around the turn, earned him a two-shot win – completing a year that already
included his maiden PGA TOUR title and Ryder Cup glory.
Post-round, Fleetwood shared that his young son Frankie had set him the target of winning so they could celebrate on the green. Dad delivered.
Genesis Championship –Korea’s Lee Writes the Final Chapter
The Back 9 finale in Korea, co-sanctioned with the KPGA, had everything: card-saving heroics, membership-defining moments, and one of the most clutch finishes of the season.
Jordan Gumberg holed out for eagle to save his status. Thomas Detry birdied 18 to keep his card. Adam Scott and Laurie Canter both produced drama to secure vital ranking positions.
But the spotlight belonged to Junghwan Lee, who fired a closing 64 to win his first DP World Tour title, securing his Tour membership and sending Korean fans into raptures.
A Back 9 to Remember
Eight winners from eight nations reinforced what the Back 9 is all about: diversity of champions, global reach, emotional resonance and compelling storylines.
As the attention now shifts to the DP World Tour Play-Offs in the UAE, the Back 9 once again did its job – elevating the Race to Dubai into a true global journey, with a finale still to be written.
COU
DESERT DECIDER
9 Facts That Make the DP World Tour Championship Iconic
Since its inaugural staging in 2009, the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates has evolved into one of global golf’s most prestigious season finales. Played on the immaculate Greg Norman-designed Earth course, the tournament welcomes the top players on the DP World Tour as they battle not only for
the tournament title, but also for supremacy in the Race to Dubai Rankings. With its dramatic closing stretch, luxurious hospitality, and pristine November weather, Dubai provides the perfect backdrop for a thrilling conclusion to the season. Over the years, the event has produced unforgettable storylines: career-defining breakthroughs, record-setting
charges, and tense, final-hole drama that capture the imagination of fans worldwide. As the spotlight shines on the world’s best, the DP World Tour Championship continues to showcase Dubai’s commitment to staging world-class sporting events and to further cement the emirate’s status as a globally influential hub for elite golf.
RSE
1. The inaugural DP World Tour Championship in 2009 threw a global spotlight on Jumeirah Golf Estates, marking Dubai’s official arrival as a toptier destination for international professional golf each November.
2. The Earth course’s iconic closing stretch, known as the “Golden Mile”, features water-guarded par-4, par-3 and par-5 finishing holes designed specifically to create thrilling leaderboard swings under Sunday pressure.
3. The Race to Dubai bonus pool has historically offered one of the richest prize payouts in world golf, adding a dramatic, high-stakes financial lure to the season’s final showdown.
4. Rory McIlroy has captured six Race to Dubai and three DPWTC titles at Jumeirah Golf Estates, forging one of the strongest player-venue relationships of the modern era on the DP World Tour.
5. Past winners have commonly ranked inside the top 10 for strokes gained putting during the week, emphasising the importance of speed control on the Earth course’s subtly contoured greens.
6. The average winning total over the past decade sits at 19-under-par, reflecting firm conditions, risk-reward strategy, and the tournament’s tendency to encourage aggressive scoring.
7. The tournament’s world-class hospitality offerings make it a favourite among global VIPs, corporate guests, and celebrity visitors, who enjoy exclusive access to premium golf experiences.
8. Sustainability initiatives at Jumeirah Golf Estates include sophisticated water management systems, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to environmentally responsible course conditioning in an arid climate.
9. The DP World Tour Championship’s familyfriendly fan village offers games, coaching zones, food stalls, and interactive golf tech experiences, making it one of the tour’s most accessible spectator events.
MCILROY AT THE DPWTC:
A SAGA OF THE SANDS
Looking to defend his title with a fourth DP World Tour Championship this November, Worldwide Golf’s Tom Norton takes an in-depth look back at 15 years of the sensational Rory McIlroy rollercoaster at Dubai’s Jumeirah Golf Estates.
Cast your mind back, if you will, to November 2009. It is the inaugural DP World Tour Championship at the newly opened Jumeirah Golf Estates - boasting a track to rival the greatest in the world in the beautiful Greg Norman-designed ‘Earth’ course.
There is much chatter about a young Northern Irishman, who months earlier under the same, shimmering Dubai sun, had announced himself to the world, claiming his very first professional Tour victory. As the grinning teenage McIlroy held the Dubai Desert Classic trophy aloft, many knew they were in the presence of something special. Few, however, could predict just how significant these Middle Eastern sands would prove in the prodigious talent’s global ascent in golf over the next fifteen years. Having experienced this opening taste of glory (further bolstered by a second Tour accolade at the BMW PGA Championship in Wentworth in May), McIlroy returned to Dubai
that November with his eyes set on a new prize on a new course. His consistent form across the year had earned him a place at JGE’s end of season finale, but this tournament represented a different beast altogether.
This was the cream of the European Tour’s crop, vying for the opportunity - not just to claim the very first DP World Tour Championship, but (for a chosen few, at least) to top the maiden Race to Dubai Rankings, securing the coveted season crown. While McIlroy put on a stellar display that November weekend, carding a final 15-under par, he fell shy of eventual champion Lee Westwood’s near flawless performance. Still, a third place finish and an emphatic demonstration that this was a competitor who could battle with the best in a pressureladen environment, meant the world was witnessing McIlroy’s inarguable transformation into a global star.
The following year would see the Holywood native put in a markedly impressive Ryder Cup debut, a first-ever (now iconic) PGA Tour victory and a T3 finish at The Open. But despite these high points, McIlroy talked at the end of the year of being ‘a little disappointed’ by his season. And, following a very respectable fifth-place finish at the DP World Tour Championship, spoke maturely about his learnings.
Well, learn he certainly did. In 2011, the 22-year-old broke through on golf’s most coveted stage - the Major Championship. Positively obliterating the field and finishing eight shots clear of second-placed Jason Day, McIlroy’s staggering 16-under at Congressional was the lowest 72-hole score in US Open history. His status now cemented amongst golf’s elite, McIlroy headed to the DP World Tour Championship later that year in close contention for the Race to Dubai top spot - teeing off on Thursday against then World No.1 and European rankings leader, Luke Donald. McIlroy (then sitting at World No. 2) took first blood in the opening bout with his future Ryder Cup Captain, shooting a dazzling 30 on the back nine at the Earth course, giving him a six-shot lead over Donald on the first day. The Championship weekend, however, belonged to Spaniard
Álvaro Quirós, with McIlroy fading over the next few days (with reports of a niggling virus and fatigue) and eventually finishing T11. Quirós was left to grab the headlines in sensational fashion that Sunday, with a monster eagle putt on the 18th to win and provide one of the DP World Tour Championship’s most iconic moments.
World Number1
A year later, McIlroy touched down in Dubai as a force of nature. Number one in the world and back in the Major winner’s circle once again with his first PGA Championship win, Rory already had the Race to Dubai crown on his head, his top spot in the Rankings mathematically assured regardless of what happened at Jumeirah Golf Estates that weekend. But for McIlroy, this was about more than simply finishing the year strong or even claiming his first DP World Tour Championship. This was a chance to properly rubber stamp his dominance in the game. He started his weekend a picture of composure. The quiet confidence of a man who was exactly where he needed to be. By day two, McIlroy slowly began turning up the heat, finishing the round among the tournament frontrunners. Moving day and the already confirmed Race to Dubai Champion was in aggressive pin-seeking
TOP: Rory McIlroy and Louis Oosthuizen in a vulnerable spot with renowned trick shot artist David Edwards on the JGE range at the 2010 DP World Tour Championship.
mode, and by close of play McIlroy had the lead firmly in his crosshairs.
That final Sunday on the Earth course in 2012 was golfing cinema. Fans expecting a two-way shootout between McIlroy and Luke Donald, had not factored in Justin Rose running riot, holing eight birdies and an eagle in his final round for a sensational course record of 62. McIlroy, perhaps feeling the nerves, opened with a faltering bogey on the first. Even his playing partner, a previously flawless Donald, succumbing to the pressure by three-putting on the third. An error marked the Englishman’s first bogey of the tournament - and incredibly his first in 103 holes on the Earth course.
As the shadows grew longer under the Dubai sun, Rose’s magnificent showing found him in the clubhouse with a daunting 21-under lead. And another bogey on the 13th for McIlroy would have had even the staunchest of his fans wondering if his season-ending procession was about to be spoiled.
But cometh the hour, cometh the man. In what is still one of the finest career finishes, the Northern Irishman hit an astonishing five birdies in a row from 14-18, with a beautifully assured 10-foot putt on the last to best Rose by two shots and seal
his first-ever DP World Tour Championship. Even with all McIlroy has achieved in the game since, this tournament and Race to Dubai victory remains one of the most defining of his career. It didn’t just show that this young man was a worthy champion but showcased that he was a true closer with the character and conviction to do what is required when the time called.
But such is the capricious nature of the game of golf, 2013 proved a turbulent time for the defending Race to Dubai and DP World Tour Champion. With his ranking slipping and no wins in 10 months over the course of the year, McIlroy had often cut a frustrated figure around the course. However, returning to Dubai that November, fans were treated to something much more akin to the Rory they had seen in years gone by. A bounce was back in his step and rhythm in his swing, as a middling opening score of 71 was followed by a 67,68 and 67, finishing the weekend tied in fifth place at 15-under, McIlroy’s best result of the year on the European Tour.
Heading back to Jumeirah Golf Estates at the season’s end in 2014, things could not have been more different than a year prior. Much like 2012, but with even more accolades under his belt, Rory returned to his beloved Earth course as world No1 and already anointed Race to Dubai winner. He’d won The Open for the first time, he’d won the PGA Championship again…many expected the DP World Tour Championship that year to be another feather in his gilded cap. But it wasn’t to be.
Despite a strong opening round of 66, a few stutters over the weekend meant McIlroy finished T2, two shots behind Henrik Stenson, the perennially composed Swede impressively defending his DP World Tour Champion status for a consecutive year. While, of course, it was not quite the end-of season finale McIlroy would have liked, ending the year World No.1, a double
LEFT TOP: Luke Donald and Rory McIlroy alongside the Harry Vardon trophy ahead of the 2011 Dubai World Tour Championship
RIGHT TOP: Rory clutching his 2015 Dubai Dessert Classic spoils next to his parents Rosie and Gerry.
Major winner, Race to Dubai champion and European Tour Player of the Year left none in doubt that Rory was roaring once again.
BOTTOM LEFT:
McIlroy holds the Claret Jug after his two-stroke victory at The 143rd Open Championship at Royal Liverpool in 2014.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Rory poses with his partner Erica Stoll and the 2015 DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai trophy after his one shot victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
A couple of months later, McIlroy ushered in 2015 with another trophy in an Emirate he’d barely left - emerging victorious at the Dubai Desert Classic in February. This win would be one of numerous vintage performances over the next few months, before being struck with the kind of cruel twist of fate that afflicts almost all major athletes at some point, a debilitating injury.
Defying Setbacks
With less than 10 days to go before attempting to defend his Open title at St Andrews, a casual kickabout with friends ended in a total rupture of McIlroy’s ankle ligament. With a chunk of the season now out of the question, rest and rehab followed. But salvation came in the form of a special exemption for McIlroy to play in the Final Series of the Race to Dubai, despite not being able to meet the 13-event qualification standard. A fortunate break indeed from the DP World Tour, and one the Race to Dubai leader would take full advantage of. This time, owing to his injury lay-off, unlike previous years, McIlroy would not be teeing it up at the Earth course already assured of the Race to Dubai crown. With Danny Willett breathing down his neck on the points board, McIlroy needed to win the DP World Tour Championship or at least finish ahead of the in-form Englishman to ensure his name was etched once again on the Harry Vardon Trophy. And winning of course, is exactly what McIlroy did. Despite being three shots adrift of overnight leader Andy Sullivan, a practically nerveless performance and self-confessed ‘best bogey of his career’ on the par-three 17th saw McIlroy card a superb 66, six under par for the day and 21-under for the tournament. It was enough to beat
the battling Sullivan by a single shot and claim his second DP World Tour Championship and his third Race to Dubai in four years.
Another momentous victory, another mammoth statement. With such a setback in the summer and with his season’s aspirations already written off by some, McIlroy had showcased a side of his game the world had not seen before.
A defiant and steely resilience to come back from the sort of physical adversity of which he’d never contended and still get the job done. European dominance now restored, as McIlroy held the DP World Tour Championship prize aloft on Earth’s 18th green, few could ever imagine it would be another nine years until this generational talent would get his hands on it once again. The next six years, the European golfing world would have to get used to a very unfamiliar sight, a DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai victor list absent of Rory McIlroy’s name.
In 2016, a mix of injuries, missed cuts and inconsistent form meant the Northern Irishman was never really in the picture to retain his Race to Dubai crown and despite some solid golf at Jumeirah Golf Estates in pursuit of another Championship, he finished in a tie for 9th. Henrik Stenson proving too strong for the field and ending the season the European Tour Champion, with the exciting emerging talent of Matt Fitzpatrick taking the DP World Tour Championship spoils.
2017 was very much a year thaton the golf course at least - McIlroy
would want to forget. Plagued by injury, he struggled for both form and victories. Highlights of a tie for seventh and fourth place at the Masters and The Open respectively, will have been of little consolation to a man of his immense standards. A winless period and dropping to sixth in the world rankings, in the last quarter of the year McIlroy’s ongoing rib and back issues prompted his taking the rest of the year off to recover properly. Naturally this would mean missing the DP World Tour finales, thus absent from the DP World Tour Championship, which in the last half decade had been both his sanctuary and glorious stage.
When McIlroy did return to Dubai in late 2018, he was back to winning ways, yet hadn’t recovered the commanding, unstoppable
Bottom: Paying the fans some lip service during the afternoon foursome matches at the 2018 Ryder Cup at Le Golf National
form of a couple of years prior. However, ahead of his first round on Earth that November weekend, it was his future position on the DP World Tour that was the topic of sporting and tabloid discussion, rather than his performances. Nevertheless, McIlroy seemed to shrug off this external distraction and open with a strong showing. Having reportedly fixed some driver setting issues he was having, his swing looked more comfortable than it had been in a long while. At the halfway point of the DP World Tour Championship weekend, he had posted two rounds of 69 and 67, putting him in solid position heading into moving day. He may have been out of the Race to Dubai, but with only one win all year to his name, the former World No. 1 still very much had a point to prove at a fixture that has historically meant so much to him.
This year it was not to be, though. He couldn’t sustain the momentum of his first two days and ended the tournament tied in a relatively lowly 20th place.
Rahm Takes The Spoils in 2019
A year later, despite no Majors, McIlroy had turned in one of the most consistent years of his career. Three PGA Tour wins for the now 30-year-old matched Brooks Koepka for the most on tour and was enough to secure the season-long FedEx Cup for the second time. Over on the DP World Tour, of the five frontrunners who could claim the Race to Dubai title in 2019, Rory was not one. An outcome McIlroy was nothing less sanguine about, conceding ahead of the weekend at Jumeirah Golf Estates that he simply had not played enough European events to be in with a shot. Nevertheless, he was justifiably happy with his golf over the year and more than motivated to claim another DP World Tour Championship before his year was out. Highlighting this determination beautifully, McIlroy’s opening round on Earth was a stunning 64 - his lowest career round in the tournament. His towering 290-yard approach on the 18th hole, landing a mere five-foot eagle putt from the pin, is still one of the greatest shots the course has seen. Even the man himself called it ‘probably the best’ he’d hit all year. Despite carding a 74 on Friday, his next round of 66 meant McIlroy’s tidy position near the top of the leaderboard was maintained heading into the deciding day.
Unfortunately, a man so accustomed to final day brilliance on the Earth course, McIlroy spun out of control. A bogey on the front nine and two in the final five holes put the brakes firmly on any title charge. His 12-under would be enough for a fourthplace finish, but five shots shy of the increasingly dominant Jon Rahm who took both the DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai crown.
Covid Disruption Halts Momentum
In 2020 the global. COVID pandemic meant elite sporting competition as we knew it became a markedly different event. Gone were the spectators (for the most part) and in their place odd new rules, restrictions and prohibitions as organisers tried to battle with the entirely unprecedented. Delayed until December, by the time the DP World Tour Championship rolled around, the disruption of the last few months and perhaps a prioritised focus on health and family in the wake of all that was happening, meant Rory’s familiar face was not in the field in Jumeirah Golf Estates that year. It was left to Matt Fitzpatrick to seize the advantage, taking home the famous baton trophy.
2021, with the sporting arena slowly returning to a slightly more familiar one, McIlroy came charging back to the UAE looking once more to become the first three-time winner of the DP World Tour Championship. Wins at the Wells Fargo and CJ Cup on the PGA Tour had been tempered by missing out on a podium place at the Olympics and an
TOP: Pictured with the FedEx Cup trophy, making McIlroy the first and only threetime winner of the Championship. His wins came in 2016, 2019, and 2022.
emotionally gruelling Ryder Cup loss where he finished with his lowest ever points tally. Still, by late Sunday of the tournament at Jumeirah Golf Estates, few could see past McIlroy getting his name on the gong once again. Especially with only a handful of holes to go and sitting on a two-shot lead. But a collapse came in the form of a disastrous three bogeys in his last four holes, opening the door for an electric Morikawa to move past McIlroy, Fitzpatrick and Alexander Bjork to claim both the DP World Tour Championship and the Race to Dubai crown with five birdies in his last seven holes.
McIlroy finished tied for sixth. A wounding result that left a viral social media impression as the player was pictured leaving the scorer’s hut with his shirt ripped apart in rage. Proof that you can never keep a good competitor down; McIlroy would finally claim Race to Dubai redemption in 2022. Topping the leaderboard by a whisker that November, he arrived in Dubai as one of seven players with a mathematical shot at finishing European No1. While McIlroy’s rallying effort on the Earth course that weekend would not be enough to claim another DP World Tour Championship (that prize belonged, once again, to Jon Rahm) his well-earned and crucial fourth place tournament finish was enough to guarantee the Race to Dubai trophy. The achievement meant more than just another accolade earned for incredible consistency of performance. It confirmed McIlroy as only the second player in history to win the PGA Tour’s FedExCup and top DP World Tour (as it was now rebranded) trophy in the same season. While the Majors had eluded him for a while, this was a golfer still intent on building a legacy as one of the
Above: After securing the Grand Slam and spurring Europe to victory at Bethpage, can Rory sign-off in style at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship?
most accomplished to ever pick up a club.
A year on, Rory’s Dubai result was the same, but the context was a little different. By 2023’s DP World Tour Championship, two Rolex Series events wins and three top tens in Major championships meant McIlroy already had the Race to Dubai in the bag, a week before Jumeirah Golf Estates’ seasonending event started. A tie for 22nd in the DP World Tour Championship may have been not much to write home about, but another stunning European end-of season triumph put the 34-year-old third on the all-time list, just one short of the late Seve Ballesteros and three behind Colin Montgomerie.
A Point to Prove
And so, to last year. The 2024 DP World Tour Championship. Astonishingly, almost a decade since McIlroy had last claimed victory in Jumeirah Golf Estate’s hallmark event. From a DP World Tour perspective, the Northern Irishman went into the tournament as he had done so many before - with a commanding points lead at the top of Race to Dubai board.
Though for reasons both professional and personal, McIlroy would later describe 2024 as the most emotionally draining of his life. Despite the prominence of his position heading into the end-of-season finale in Dubai, he knew his year had been defined by certain high-profile misses more than anything else. Most memorably, an agonising capitulation in the US Open earlier that summer - where he seemed to snatch defeat from the jaws of certain victory. Suffice to say, the Race to Dubai leader will have felt he had a point to prove that November weekend. Even though a tournament win late on that Sunday afternoon was not needed for the season-rankings crown, for McIlroy, and the DP World Tour Championship that had evaded him for nine years, it was necessary. He completed his weekend masterclass with a final round of 69, enough to beat Rasmus Hojgaard by two shots and claim a glorious
Dubai double. And in the golden light of the 18th green, when interviewed, the world saw just how much it meant to Rory McIlroy. Despite enjoying seasonal victory in the very same spot he had done so many times before over the last decade and a half, this was the most emotional the gathered JGE crowd had ever seen one of their favourite competitors. Teary-eyed, he talked of his immense pride at matching the great Seve Ballesteros in European Order of Merit titles. He touched on his near misses, the perception of his year and self-inflicted pressure. But, above all, was McIlroy’s clear contentment at the perseverance he had shown. A perseverance, we would come to see months later in that fateful, final round of the Masters, that would be his making.
So what can we expect from Rory McIlroy this year at the DP World Tour Championship? Well, while he sits once more on top of the Race to Dubai standings, he returns as one of golf’s immortals, a Grand Slam winner, the culmination of a redemptive journey years in the making. And much like a handful of other competitors in the field, will also be coming off the back of *that* Ryder Cup victory. A triumph for the ages for the European team in the toughest of environments, but one that would have tested every one of them in ways they never had been before. How all these history-laden endeavours will have left this great champion, is anyone’s guess. Will he finish the job with aplomb? Or will there be another characteristic twist in this Earth course tale?
For well over a decade, Rory McIlroy’s relationship with the DP World Tour Championship has been one of golf’s most compelling stories. And much like all great love affairs, it’s been a tumultuous one. Clutch putts, choked drives. Seismic highs, shirt-ripping lows. Yet, if we’ve learned anything about golf where Rory McIlroy is concerned, in this part of the world or beyond, it’s always box-office. So, grab the popcorn, and we’ll see you at the first tee.
RICK BEVAN SPENDS AN AFTERNOON WITH NICOLAS COLSAERTS AND HIS FAMILY AT THEIR HOME IN ABU DHABI, WHERE THE MUCH-LOVED BELGIAN REFLECTS ON A GLITTERING 25-YEAR CAREER AS HE CALLS TIME ON TOUR LIFE AFTER 501 DP WORLD TOUR APPEARANCES.
Photography: Alex Leyno
DUDE BOWS OUT The
It was an idea that had been germinating in Nicolas Colsaerts’ mind since he was blindsided in 2021, after being diagnosed with a rare, serious kidney disease called primary membranous nephropathy.
Was the juice worth the squeeze anymore?
“Just after I got sick, I was like, do I really want to do those 25–30 weeks a year where I’m away, where I’m struggling with many different things,” he says. “Not just necessarily golfrelated. You start to look at things
differently – I haven’t really had the fire to go practise as much.
“I just don’t want to live that life anymore. I’ve done it for 25 years with the ups and downs. It’s a vicious circle: I don’t play as good as I want, but I don’t really have the will to practise. Do I want to put myself through 30 weeks of that a year? I think the answer is no.”
I’m privileged to spend an afternoon with the man known on Tour as ‘The Dude’, and his family, at their new home in Abu Dhabi. From the outside, it would be easy to form the wrong picture of a successful Tour
player’s household – entitled, spoilt, arrogant? Nothing could be further from the truth. The Colsaerts clan are as humble, easy-going and grounded as they come.
I’m greeted at the door by Rachel, who welcomes me in and immediately makes me a baristalevel cup of coffee – much needed after the drive from Dubai. Their two boys, Jackson (7) and Ollie (4), come and say hello with admirable manners and confidence. And then there’s the fifth member of the family – Coco, the dog, padding about like she owns the place.
Back at the dining table, Nico and I continue our candid deep-dive into his facinating life and professional journey. His decision to call time on a career spanning three decades wasn’t a rash one. Dubai’s ground-breaking Brain and Performance Centre helped him regain his health and his confidence, “they’ve been absolutely incredible,” he says. But the calendar didn’t lie. Twenty-five years on the road. Two boys growing fast. An amazingly supportive wife who’d done the heavy lifting. Something had to give.
He originally planned to step away at the end of last season. But a purple patch at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, where he led at the halfway stage and came agonisingly close to a memorable victory – taking the runner-up spot, one behind Tyrrell Hatton – dragged him back in. Instead, a new plan was hatched: join the exclusive 500 Club and walk away with one final big career moment in the bag.
“There’s not 50 of us that have done it,” says the long-time UAE resident. “I think there’s going to
where I hit my first golf balls. I realised by the time I was probably between 12 and 14: this is for me.
“I remember reading an article about Bernhard Langer that he dropped out of school at 14, and I told my parents I wanted to drop school. I couldn’t go to normal school anymore because of all the tournaments, so I went into some sort of lateral schooling. I was obsessed with every facet of the game.”
By the time he was 16, Colsaerts was winning a hatful of Belgian championships, playing in Junior Ryder Cups (1997 and 1998) and marking himself out as a star of the future.
He turned pro on his 18th birthday, went to Q-School and bagged a European Tour card. In the blink of an eye, he was lining up on the range alongside the very players he’d been following as a fan a matter of months earlier.
he says. “It was the realisation that being on Tour is a serious business and I was flat-out not ready. I didn’t have the maturity.”
But he didn’t lose his cool. His raw talent had emboldened him with an ingrained calm, self-confidence. This is The Dude, after all…
“I think I was so unconscious of the possibilities that were ahead of me that I basically just bore through them,” he says. “I never panicked. Not ever. I kind of always knew that I had this in me.
“It’s a risky game because, when you lose your card on Tour, you’re never sure to get it back. But I always had this good feeling in my gut that it was going to be all right.”
The breakthrough came during a
2001 IS THE ONE THAT SCARRED THE MOST,” HE SAYS. “IT WAS THE REALISATION THAT BEING ON TOUR IS A SERIOUS BUSINESS AND I WAS FLATOUT NOT READY. I DIDN’T HAVE THE MATURITY.
“The transition was way too abrupt and way too aggressive in my case,” he says. “I went and played Q-School at the end of 2000, not realising how much my life could change. Back then, 18 years old was extremely young. From one day to another, I ended up teeing at pro events with 30-and 35-year-olds, and my game was all over the place. I didn’t have the frame or the package that these kids have now. We were just freestyling. I got on Tour like an untreated diamond, and it took a little while to take the edges off.”
He lost his card and dropped down to the second-tier Challenge Tour – it would happen again in 2008–09 – an experience that showed him how extreme the step up from talented junior to Tour golfer really is.
“2001 is the one that scarred the most,”
be less and less people being able to get to 500 because of the physical demands of the game. It bothered me last year to realise that I was going to fall short of it.”
In a gift from the golfing gods, his 500th came back at the Alfred Dunhill Links – and when brutal weather chopped the event to three rounds, it meant his final loop of that milestone week fell at St Andrews, the Home of Golf. There was one last passport stamp in India – a final farewell at the DP World India Championship –and then that was that for Tour life.
“A couple of times on the Sunday, I realised that that’s actually the last time that I’m hitting this tee shot,” he says. “These pictures will stay with me forever. The thing that I’ll miss the most is probably playing some of the best courses in the world in the best conditions possible.”
What a ride it’s been, though. The product of a sporting family (his great-grandfather represented Belgium at basketball and water polo at the 1920 Olympic Games), Colsaerts became obsessed with golf at an early age.
“Dad took me to a driving range, inside a horse track – beautiful driving range,” he says. “That’s
Photography: Alex Leyno
Colsaerts pictured in his Abu Dhabi home with a selection of his trophies and the commerative gold disk emblazoned with his ‘The Dude’ nickname, received after reaching 500 DP World Tour appearances at the Dunhill Links Champinship
barnstorming run through 2011–2012. A first European Tour title at the Volvo China Open was followed by the biggest victory of his career the next year at the Volvo World Match Play. For Colsaerts, it didn’t feel like a weight off his back – it was a natural progression on his path to the very top.
“It wasn’t relief – it was a first hurdle passed,” he says. “From winter ’09–’10 I took it to the level of seriousness it deserves.”
Then came the Miracle of Medinah. It’s a well-told story – deservedly so – but one that bears repeating. Alongside Lee Westwood in the Friday fourballs, set to the raucous soundtrack provided by the US fans, his first taste of Ryder Cup action was against perhaps the greatest player ever – Tiger Woods –and Steve Stricker. Colsaerts announced his arrival on golf’s biggest stage with rock-star aplomb. With eight birdies and an eagle on his card, he almost single-handedly secured Europe’s only point of the session.
“I never felt frightened that week,” he says. “If Woods holes from 15 or 18 feet on the last, it’s a half – and I’m remembered differently. That’s how tight the Ryder Cup is.”
Twelve years later he’d feel the enormity of the Matches from a different vantage point vice-captain to Luke Donald in Rome, a role
he says rejuvenated him during a difficult year following his illness.
“I really enjoyed being part of that week a lot more than when you’re playing. I was still going through depression at that stage. It kind of healed me to go to this Ryder Cup and still take the role with extreme seriousness and a sense of responsibility again, feel the vibrations from the crowd. It really healed me. I could breathe normally again when Rome was over.”
There were near-misses and what-ifs, as there are in any long career. A fleeting PGA Tour stint, top-10s in Majors that might have swelled into something bigger with a kinder bounce – Merion’s closing hole still lives rentfree in his memory. But there were also the days when the mercury hit red: the course record at Fancourt, a 60 at Vilamoura that lipped out for 59, and an emotionally charged victory at the 2019 Open de France, which was to be his last on the DP World Tour.
“Should I have had more lines on my CV? Yes, 100%. I had the talent; I just didn’t have the package and the drive to stay at that level for so long,” he says. “The thing that I’m most amazed at with the best players now is the frequency at which they play well… the capabilities of these guys of showing up
A Ryder Cup debut to remember as Tiger gives respect where its due
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week-in, week-out and delivering.”
Away from the course, Colsaerts has always had another big love – music. Long before he became a Ryder Cup cult hero, he was a crate-digging vinyl head, sneaking into Brussels clubs to study the DJs and absorb the music.
“My mother used to take me to the flea market in Brussels, in that street there’s probably the best techno club that was ever in operation in Belgium,” he recalls. “I remember seeing people coming out of that place, I was like, that looks cool! I bought my first electronic music album at HMV on Oxford Street when I was 12. There was this culture of massive clubs outside of town – lasers and smoke, trance music. I started going to clubs like that
when I was 16 years old. I’m sad that my kids will never live in an era like that!”
So, what comes next?
“I’ve been contemplating a career in broadcasting and golf commentary for the last couple of years,” he says. “I’ve done The Ryder Cup, four Open Championships, all the events here in the Middle East. It’s going to be a very easy transition – I almost feel a certain level of duty to explain this sport and give golf aficionados a level of understanding at our level. I have a certain level of respect for the right information about the game that I’ve played for the last 35 years.”
We’re interrupted by Ollie, brandishing the commemorative gold disc inscribed, ‘The Dude:
Congratulations for your 500th appearance on the DP World Tour.’ “This one’s special,” he proudly announces. The glint in Dad’s eye tells me that making his family proud probably sits higher in his internal leaderboard than any trophy he’s ever lifted.
As for legacy, Colsaerts isn’t the type for grandiose, self-congratulatory statements.
“I try to always be very honest; I try to always be very approachable,” he says. “If an eight-yearold watches you on the range for 15 minutes, he’s interested – be nice to him.”
I TRY TO ALWAYS BE VERY HONEST; I TRY TO ALWAYS BE VERY APPROACHABLE,” HE SAYS. “IF AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD WATCHES YOU ON THE RANGE FOR 15 MINUTES, HE’S INTERESTED – BE NICE TO HIM. “ “
In typical Colsaerts fashion, his closing thought is delivered with understated cool: “I was lucky enough to avoid the potholes, even though I tripped many times. But there’s no 25-year run in anything without struggling, so I’ve been lucky enough to be able to do it for quite a long time and probably longer than most.”
Take a bow, Nico. Take a bow.
Photography: Alex Leyno
THE COLSAERTS CLAN (left to right): Rachel, Ollie, Jackson, Coco and Nico.
Ayear on from the week at Yas Links that flipped his career on its head, Paul Waring still often rewatches the reels. His emotional triumph in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship was the biggest win of his career – genuinely life-changing, opening the door to the PGA Tour – but the stinging reality of Tour golf is the body doesn’t always play ball.
An untimely shoulder injury has wrecked his schedule and the Dubai resident won’t be back to defend his title at Yas Links
from November 6–9. In this exclusive interview with Worldwide Golf’s Rick Bevan, he looks back on the 61 that set it up, that breathtaking three-wood into 18 on the final day, and the mindset shift that followed – a candid reminder that even career-defining weeks come with a price.
Worldwide Golf: You’ve had time to look back on Abu Dhabi. How often do you replay that week?
Paul Waring: Yeah, quite a bit if I’m
honest. I’ve still got a few clips saved on Twitter – I do live it back now and then. It was definitely a career-defining moment for me. With the PGA Tour pathway through the top ten cards (for Race to Dubai Rankings top finishers), it gave me something I’d always dreamed of – the chance to play more in America. But to win here in the UAE, in front of so many friends and familiar faces, that made it really special. I was absolutely made up to have achieved that in my career.
Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship
WWG: That second-round 61 was outrageous. What clicked?
PW: You get those moments in a season when everything just flows, and I was lucky it happened in such a big event. I’d moved to Dubai, was practising really well, and my body felt great in the warm weather. I’d felt close for a while – like it was coming – and it was class that it all came together that week.
WWG: Talk us through the three-wood into 18 to set up the win on the final day. Plenty thought lay-up.
PW: People did say that! But I’ve always found the lay-up at Yas Links really tricky visually. Even in practice rounds it doesn’t suit my eye — there isn’t a clear landing spot depending on the flag. So, if I get a chance to take it on in two, I’m taking it on. That was my plan all week.
That second round I missed the tee shot left, hacked it out, and was left a three-wood I hit to about three-and-a-half feet – probably one of the best shots of my career. I’d hit a couple of really solid ones with that club earlier in the week too, so by Sunday, even with a one-shot lead, there was no talk between me and my caddie about laying up. We’d hit that shot under pressure already; we knew what we were doing. For me, laying up could’ve brought six into play – taking it on made more sense. I trusted the shot and leaned on the memory bank.
WWG: Abu Dhabi and the DP World Tour Championship close the season – does the new DP World Tour Play-Offs format work for you?
PW: It makes perfect sense. I first came out here in 2007 when Abu Dhabi started the year. Now, finishing the season with two great events as we move into winter here just feels right. The weather’s perfect, tourism’s booming, and it’s a great time for outdoor sport. Four days in Abu Dhabi, four in Dubai – brilliant for fans and families. For players it’s a proper target. It’s not just points or money; it’s about coming back here to finish the year. WWG: You’ve made Dubai home. Why does it work for you?
PW: We’re spoilt, really. I’ve been coming here nearly 20 years and it’s changed massively – back then the marina by Emirates Golf Club wasn’t even built. I used to spend winters practising here and was flying through Dubai Airport seven months of the year. It just made sense to base myself here: world-class facilities, fantastic people, and anything you want at the top level.
Ironically, one of the reasons I moved was to lessen travel time and after my win in Abu Dhabi I’m now playing more in the States – it’s 16 hours to San Francisco! But Dubai’s so well connected you can still make it work. Like Tommy [Fleetwood], I’ll stay based here and fly over when I need to.
WWG: From that high to injury frustrations with a persistent shoulder issue. What’s the reality of injuries and life as a Tour pro?
PW: It’s professional sport – the wear and tear is real. We play four rounds a week over about 25 events – roughly 100 competitive rounds a year – plus practice, pro-ams, gym work, travel. Injuries happen. Mine came at an annoying time, but that’s how it goes. You can’t control it.
What it has given me is a reset. Mentally I’ve had time to get some clarity and I’m hungrier to get back. The plan is to hopefully return by the end of the year and then start fresh in 2026 – maybe the Dubai Invitational or the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
Andy Murray
Wimbledon champion Andy Murray doesn’t just dominate on Centre Court, he’s got a real soft spot for the fairways too. Growing up a short drive from Gleneagles, the Scot’s love affair with golf runs deep, and he’s a regular face at events like the Alfred Dunhill Links, where his competitive streak is never far away. Whether it’s analysing his takeaway or perfecting that followthrough, Murray brings the same laser focus (and occasional mutter under his breath!) that made him a tennis legend.
Turn the page to see how his swing stacks up under the microscope.
ANDY MURRAY SWING SEQUENCE
Analysing Andy Murray’s swing offers a fascinating glimpse into how an athlete from one sport adapts to another.
Athletic setup with a solid arm structure and base. Lead arm straight with a slight fold in the trail elbow. Hip line potentially slightly behind his heels but foundation looks strong.
Primary motion with lots of width, a strong face and minimal wrist action. Chest and hips have 1 2 3 6 7
both opened up early to create lots of space/depth. Pivot more around his lead leg with minimal load through his right side.
3. Due to his early coil, arms and club have worked in and across as the wrists start to load up.
4. Shoulders and arms fully stretched up as he reaches the top of his pattern. Trail elbow has worked behind into a natural throwing position similar to Jack Nicklaus and Fred couples.
Written by Stephen DeaneHead International Development Coach for Dubai Golf
Stephen is an ambassador for Dubai Golf and coaches at their wonderful array of facilities whilst in Dubai. Stephen also spends a proportion of his time developing professionals, amateurs and VIPs Internationally He has a passion for coach education and sharing knowledge and ideas with his colleagues and students
Pattern again looks based around the lead side in a stack and tilt style.
5. Shoulder pressure works down as he maintains his wrist set and great to see some pressure through his right leg as his weight moves forward.
6. Impact, body has opened as shoulders remain square as he delivers a solid looking clubface to the ball. His trail arm has maintained some flex and the left has extended similar to his setup position.
Andy certainly demonstrates a draw style pattern. His exceptional hand-eye coordination is a significant asset aiding him with precise ball striking and clubface control. 4 5 8 9 9
7. His lead side extends up as his body continues to open. Very nice control of his arms with minimal manipulation of the clubface and he maintains pressure on the ball and a stable face. You can see how he can play some exceptional golf with this pattern through impact.
8. High draw style exit as his right side drives through the ball.
9. Arms and shoulders continue to load up as he admires his work with
his trail foot fully rotated past 90 degrees.
10. Shoulders, arms and elbows start to relax as his body slows down into its finish.
By Rick Bevan
GUN
Photography: Alex Leyno
YOUNG GUN
HOW A WALL STREET BANKER, STILL SHY OF 30, SHOOK UP THE UAE’S GOLF SCENE ALONG WITH HIS BROTHER-IN-LAW
As love affairs go, Matthew Csillag’s with golf started early.
He picked up a club at two, started competing at five, and now, having not yet blown out the candles of his 30th birthday cake, he’s co-owner of Five Iron Golf Dubai with his brother-in-law David Zabinsky. Together they’ve solved the Dubai golf scene’s heat-and-daylight issue by creating a year-round, 17-hours-a-day (19 at weekends) hub for golf and entertainment that – still only one year into life – has proved a smash hit with serious golfers, weekend warriors and those who are purely there for the craic.
“Five Iron started in New York to democratise golf and make it more accessible to all,” says Csillag as we catch up in Five Iron Dubai’s plush members’ lounge. “It was the first of its kind to combine golf with entertainment, food and beverage… You can get into golf – and you don’t even have to pick up a club to have fun here.”
Walk into venue located within The Westin Mina Seyahi in Dubai Marina and you’ll find the largest Five Iron on the planet: over 32,000 sq ft, 17 TrackMan simulators, outdoor terrace, mini golf, darts, pool, top of the range F1 driving sims – the lot.
BUSINESS BAY IS MORE LOUNGE-STYLE – ABOUT 6,500 SQUARE FEET WITH FIVE SIMS, FULL F&B – THAT SPORTS-BAR VIBE SERVING RESIDENTS AND THE DOWNTOWN CROWD. IT’S IN A COMPLEX WITH OVER 3,000 UNITS SO WE EXPECT IT TO BE ANOTHER POPULAR FACILITY.”
“I remember walking through Herald Square on a Monday league night – 15 simulators full, bar packed – and thinking, ‘This guy has it figured out,’” says Matt of fellow American, Five Iron founder Jared Solomon. “When I visited Dubai, it was way too hot to play outside. There was a real need here.”
The dream became a reality when the flagship Dubai venue opened in September 2024. They launched strong, then listened and adapted. Having initially pitched annual memberships, they pivoted to a monthly model you can pause any time – perfect for a city where many people vanish for summers, school breaks or business travel.
“We’re over 400 members strong,” says Csillag. “For AED 899 a month, you can play every day for 90 minutes, get discounts on F&B and lessons, and pause if you’re away. We don’t want people to feel pressure to pay when they’re not here.”
And it isn’t just about memberships. The audience mix is broad – a key driver in the popularity and profitability of the Five Iron model.
“It’s honestly quite spread out,” he says. “Great golfers working on their TrackMan numbers. We have a ton of corporate events – a few hundred in a
year. Our lesson programme is growing like crazy. And newcomers who are intimidated by going on-course and losing 20 balls – they can learn the game here. Then we have people who just come to watch sport, play some pool or darts, and have a good time!”
The success of Five Iron’s Dubai debut has attracted some hard-hitting investors keen for a taste of the action. A growth round was led by Powerhouse Capital, an investor in the company behind Netflix smash hit Full Swing and the guys also brought in NFL great Larry Fitzgerald Jr., PGA Tour winner Kurt Kitayama, LPGA star Alison Lee, and Lloyd Danzig, Managing Partner at Sharp Alpha. The funding has poured fuel on the fire of the two US entrepreneurs, leading to two new venues set for Q1 2026: one in the UAE’s capital and another at DAMAC Towers in Dubai’s Business Bay.
“Yas Bay in Abu Dhabi will be another mega facility – about 25,000 square feet,” says Csillag. “At least 12 simulators, a full food-and-beverage programme and a massive terrace – around 11,000 square feet – beergarden style overlooking the waterfront.
“Business Bay is more lounge-style – about 6,500 square feet with five sims, full F&B – that sports-bar vibe serving residents and the Downtown crowd. It’s in a complex with over 3,000 units so we expect it to be another popular facility.”
And the best bit for existing members? The network works like…well…a network!
“The great thing about Five Iron is that when you’re a member, you’re a member of all Five Irons in the UAE,”
THE GREAT THING ABOUT FIVE IRON IS THAT WHEN YOU’RE A MEMBER, YOU’RE A MEMBER OF ALL FIVE IRONS IN THE UAE.” “
he says. “If your home club is The Westin, you’ll still be able to use your daily sim time in Business Bay. If you’re in Abu Dhabi for the day, you can use it there. You’ll have a home club – but you can roam.”
I’m keen to learn how such an eminent list of investors for the new venues came to the table?
“It came about through our network in sports, media and venture,” says Csillag. “They love the UAE and they love golf. For now it’s really business – and if they’re in town, I’m sure they’ll come by and support.”
Getting from idea to doors-open wasn’t some Hollywood montage. It was good old-fashioned graft – and hiring well.
“Real estate here is limited and competitive so finding this perfect location at The Westin was huge,” he says. “Then team. Our COO, Andrew Bostock, took a blank shell to what you see now and he’s helping with all our future builds. Our GM, Craig, has a lot of F&B experience and just knows how to operate the place. And Zane Scotland leads golf – one of the best instructors in the region and a former DP World Tour player. The F&B and the golf side – they’re the two most critical elements of Five Iron.”
Five Iron is the ultimate business venture for Csillag, who has been a golf nut pretty much his entire life. He played on the Emory college golf team and it was while still a student that he gave early notice of his entrepreneurial spirit when he launched a start-up at university with an app to stop texting while driving.
Before Dubai he did his time on Wall Street – investment banking, private equity and private credit. The Wall Street habits haven’t left him either.
“We actively look at footfall and analyse all the numbers,” says Csillag. “Membership is critical – hearing members, improving the calendar and events, keeping them happy. And F&B –making sure people enjoy everything we offer and know the range of options.”
The ambitious brothers-in-law have delivered an impressive first 12 months for Five Iron in the UAE and they don’t plan to rest on their laurels after the two new venues open next year.
Did someone mention Ras Al Khaimah?
“We originally announced a sixlocation deal,” says Csillag. “We’ll have three locations after Q1, and the plan is two more in Q3–Q4 2026.
“There’s another emirate of interest where there may be a casino going in,” he adds with a wry smile, “and then other parts of Dubai that are untapped – Arabian Ranches, Motor City. Over the summer it was very hard to get a simulator most times, and we have 17 of them. So, we’re watching where demand outpaces supply – maybe putting in a smaller unit like we’re doing at Paramount.”
Not bad at all for a ‘not yet 30’ ex-Wall Street numbers man. Watch this space as something tells me Csillag and Zabinsky are far from done in their mission shake up the golf scene in the UAE and beyond.
PORTUGAL CALLING
THE RELAUNCHED MENA GOLF TOUR TEES OFF IN STYLE
PORTUGAL SETS THE STAGE FOR THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED RETURN OF THE MENA GOLF TOUR, WITH THREE STANDOUT VENUES PROVIDING CHAMPIONSHIP DRAMA, WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES AND UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES FOR PLAYERS, FANS AND MEDIA ALIKE.
TRÓIA GOLF WHERE THE JOURNEY BEGINS
The Tróia Golf Championship Course provides an electrifying platform for the opening qualifying event of the relaunched MENA Golf Tour — and few destinations could be better suited to ignite this new era. Set on the sun-kissed Tróia Peninsula just south of
Lisbon, the venue blends tournament pedigree with a resort-style welcome, offering players a stunning backdrop as they chase coveted Tour status.
Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., the par-72 layout stretches approximately
6,317 metres across dramatic dunes, whispering pines and sweeping Atlantic views. Renowned for narrow greens, bold bunkering and sandy rough, it challenges every facet of a player’s game — enough to thrill professionals, yet still welcoming to ambitious amateurs.
EFFORTLESS ACCESS FROM LISBON
Tróia’s clubhouse ticks every box: reception, pro shop, restaurant and bar, plus panoramic terraces overlooking the 18th and the shimmering water. Practice areas include a full driving range, two putting greens, a chipping green and bunker complexes — ideal for sharpening edges ahead of pressure golf. Off the fairways, the destination shines too. On-site accommodation, marina access and beach-side recreation create the perfect balance for competitors, coaches, families and travelling media.
Travel is delightfull y straightforward. Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), drive 30–40 minutes to Setúbal, then enjoy a scenic 20–30 minute ferry or catamaran across the Sado estuary. Allow around 60–75 minutes, door-to-door. It’s quick, simple — and breathtaking. With elite playing conditions, superb infrastructure and a spectacular seaside setting, Tróia stands out not only as the ideal host for MENA Golf Tour qualification, but also as a bucket-list destination for global golf travellers.
PGA AROEIRA LISBOA PRECISION MEETS PRESTIGE
As the curtain rises on the MENA Golf Tour’s new season, PGA Aroeira Lisboa steps into the spotlight with poise and pedigree. Located within the beautiful Herdade da Aroeira estate, this 36-hole championship venue — featuring designs by Frank Pennink (No.1) and Donald Steel (No.2) — has recently been elevated as Portugal’s first “PGA National” branded tournament facility. Backdropped by towering pines and Atlantic
breezes, Aroeira No.1 — often heralded as the “Wentworth of Lisbon” — sets a demanding stage. First opened in 1973 and host to European Tour events throughout the 1990s, the revamped layout rewards confident drivers, strategic thinkers and players willing to plot their way to victory. Recent upgrades have sharpened bunkers, enhanced fairway runs and modernised irrigation, ensuring impeccable tournament conditions.
AMENDOEIRA GOLF RESORT ALGARVE EXCELLENCE AWAITS
From Lisbon, the Tour heads 160 miles south to the Algarve and the spectacular Amendoeira Golf Resort — a venue that fuses accessibility, beauty and championship pedigree. Just 35 minutes from Faro Airport and 10 minutes from the golden sands of Armação de Pêra, it offers the perfect balance between competition intensity
and post-round relaxation.
The resort boasts two championship courses: the strategic and dramatic Faldo Course, framed by desert-style bunkers, rolling terrain and elevated tees; and the more generous, water-threaded O’Connor Jnr Course, inviting varied shot-making and creative scoring.
BUILT FOR MODERN TOURNAMENT GOLF
Players benefit from seamless infrastructure: a well-equipped clubhouse, on-site hospitality, tournament logistics and media-friendly spaces ideal for content capture — increasingly important in the digital era.
Just 30 minutes from Lisbon’s vibrant city centre and the airport, the venue offers both accessibility and tranquillity. Outside the ropes, the scenic Costa da Caparica coastline and the charming beach town of Fonte da Telha provide perfect spaces to unwind or warm up.
PGA Aroeira Lisboa delivers a true opening statement: polished, professional and perfectly primed to set the tone for the season ahead.
ELITE
PRACTICE, ELITE PREPARATION
Players will relish state-of-the-art facilities, including TrackMan practice bays, a floodlit nine-hole academy course, refined accommodation and a modern clubhouse — all crafted to support highperformance routines.
Beyond golf, the surrounding region provides cultural colour: the medieval town of Silves, Albufeira’s buzzing marina, rugged cliffs, fresh seafood and iconic Algarve sunsets. It’s no wonder golfers worldwide label it a favourite.
Perfectly located, beautifully presented and technically demanding, Amendoeira promises to escalate the competitive tempo and propel earlyseason storylines.
POUILLARD Lea
SWING SMART, PLAY HAPPY
POUILLARD
When you meet Lea Pouillard, Senior Coach at the Tommy Fleetwood Academy at Jumeirah Golf Estates, you’re immediately struck by her warmth, energy, and calm authority.
Whether she’s guiding a young junior through their first swing or fine-tuning a scratch player’s posture, Lea’s passion for golf is unmistakable – and infectious.
Her journey from the rolling countryside of northern France to one of Dubai’s most respected golf academies is a story of curiosity, courage, and relentless learning. As she puts it with her trademark smile: “Golf has been part of my life for so long – it’s not just a job, it’s who I am.”
FROM FAMILY FAIRWAYS TO FINDING HER PURPOSE
Lea’s love affair with golf began at the age of ten in France, when her father first placed a club in her hands. “My dad introduced me to golf – it was an amazing sport to enjoy as a family,” she says. “It built such a strong father-daughter connection.”
A naturally gifted all-round athlete, Lea played everything from tennis to horse riding, but golf stood out. “At around 15, I realised this was the sport I wanted to build my life around,” she recalls. “There was something about the precision, the rhythm, the individuality – it felt like home.”
Her early years were filled with friendly competition and family rounds. “I loved trying to beat my dad,” she laughs. “Back then it was all about fun, but once you go professional, everything changes. You start thinking about making a living, and that pressure can take away some of the joy.”
That transition from junior to professional brought its challenges. “It’s a totally different world,” she explains. “When you’re young, it’s about friends and fun. But when it becomes your livelihood, it can get very serious. Coaching helped me rediscover the joy. It reminded me why I fell in love with the game in the first place.”
It was during a junior training camp in northern France that her coaching spark was lit. “I joined one of the programmes for young players, and it just clicked,” she says. “Helping others learn and enjoy the game gave me a completely new sense of purpose. That’s when I knew – I wanted to teach.”
LEARNING FROM THE BEST
Lea’s professional training took her to Le Golf National, the home of the 2018 Ryder Cup and one of Europe’s most revered golf venues. “The PGA training in France takes place there – it’s an incredible environment,” she says. “The facilities are world-class, and you’re constantly surrounded by elite players and top coaches.”
That atmosphere shaped her approach to the game. “Watching the national teams train, seeing the precision of the coaches, and understanding how small adjustments create big results – it completely changed how I saw golf,” she explains. “You realise success isn’t accidental; it’s built through habits, structure, and attention to detail.”
Her education didn’t stop there. When she later moved to Dubai, Lea had the chance to learn from one of golf’s greatest minds – Pete Cowen. “Pete’s mindset is unbelievable,” she says. “He’s so precise and so curious. Everything he teaches comes from his own experience. He doesn’t just read theories – he experiments, tests, fails, and learns.”
She recalls one moment vividly. “We were in
the bunker with him one day, and he suddenly said, ‘I’ve just worked it out.’ He’d been testing different techniques for hours – even on himself – until he found a solution. That’s Pete: relentless learning and total dedication. It’s inspired how I coach every day.”
DUBAI CALLING
In 2020, amid global uncertainty, Lea made the biggest move of her life. “I’d always wanted to live abroad and discover something new,” she says. “Then I met Stephen Hubner, who offered me the chance to come to Dubai just after COVID – or maybe even during it!” she laughs.
“It was such a great opportunity. I wanted to push myself, to grow as a coach and a person.”
Those first few months brought challenges – a new culture, a new climate, and a new language. “Coaching in English was tough at first,” she admits. “But it’s made me a better communicator. Every year, I feel more confident.”
Four years later, she’s one of the leading lights at the Tommy Fleetwood Academy Golf Estates – a venue that perfectly aligns with her philosophy of learning and joy. “The energy
“WHEN YOU’RE YOUNG, IT’S ABOUT FRIENDS AND FUN. BUT WHEN IT BECOMES YOUR LIVELIHOOD, IT CAN GET VERY SERIOUS. COACHING HELPED ME REDISCOVER THE JOY. IT REMINDED ME WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE GAME IN THE FIRST PLACE.”
at TFA is so positive,” she says. “The facilities are world-class, and the environment encourages growth. Whether it’s juniors, ladies, or tour players, everyone’s motivated to improve.”
Her coaching philosophy blends solid fundamentals with enjoyment. “A good setup and posture are everything,” she says. “If your foundation is strong, your body can move efficiently and naturally. That’s what creates
“YOU CAN WORK HARD, IMPROVE YOUR TECHNIQUE, AND STILL ENJOY EVERY SECOND OF IT. THAT’S WHAT GOLF IS ALL ABOUT.”
creates momentum,” she explains. “My job is to help them stack those wins – and keep smiling
Lea’s passion extends far beyond the technical
Outside golf, Lea has another lifelong passion – horse riding. “It’s my escape,” she says. “When I’m riding, I’m not thinking about golf swings or training plans. It’s just me, the horse, and the moment. It brings balance – and that makes me a better coach.”
THE COACH, THE STUDENT, THE FAN
Despite her impressive career, Lea remains a student of the game herself. “There’s always something new to learn,” she says. “That’s what I love about golf – it’s endless.”
Her admiration for the sport’s greats keeps her inspired. “Rory McIlroy has been my hero since I was young – his swing is just beautiful,” she says. “And Nelly Korda? She’s the complete modern golfer: athletic, composed, confident. I love her mindset.”
beginners. “Sometimes women
and enjoy it. It’s not about enthusiastic, and full of the game even more – it’s
Lea’s responsibilities have support the head coach
Technology also plays a huge role in her coaching evolution. “The data we have now is unbelievable,” she says. “Launch monitors, swing capture – it’s like having a microscope for movement. It’s given coaches and players tools to understand things we could never see before.”
When asked who she’d choose as a dream caddy, Lea’s answer shows her sporting soul. “Lindsey Vonn,” she grins. “I’m a big ski fan and I’ve always admired her determination. She’s overcome so many setbacks and still comes back stronger. I think she’d bring amazing energy and focus to a round.”
And as for the toughest courses in the UAE? “Dubai Creek and the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates,” she replies without hesitation. “They’re completely different but equally demanding. You need to be creative, smart, and disciplined to play them well.”
With the DP World Tour
Championship returning to JGE soon, Lea can’t wait. “It’s such an exciting time,” she says. “To be surrounded by the best players and coaches in the world, watching how they prepare and train – you learn so much from just observing. It’s a privilege.”
A COACH WHO CARES
At just 30, Lea Pouillard has already packed a lifetime of experience into her journey — from France’s national training grounds to Dubai’s elite academies. Yet what stands out most isn’t her résumé, but her authenticity.
“I want every player I work with to feel confident and inspired,” she says. “Golf should be challenging, but it should also be joyful. When someone walks away from a lesson smiling –that’s the best reward.”
When asked what’s
Whether she’s helping a junior find their rhythm, encouraging a new lady golfer to take that first step, or observing Tour players fine-tune their craft, Lea embodies what modern coaching is all about: skill, empathy, and an unshakable love for the game.
As she puts it: “Golf has given me everything –friendships, lessons, opportunities. My goal is to give all of that back, one swing at a time.”
INSPIRING OMAR BASTAKI’S GLOBAL MISSION THROUGH Golf:
Golf is often described as more than just a sport. For Emirati golfer and Prosports International brand ambassador Omar Bastaki, it has become a universal language—one that speaks of discipline, respect, perseverance and community. His decision to leave behind a career in investment banking and pursue the rigorous PGA qualification is not only a personal transformation but also a mission to use golf as a platform for positive change.
From mentoring young Emirati athletes to collaborating with global wellness organisations, Bastaki’s journey represents a bridge between cultures, generations, and disciplines. It is a story rooted in the UAE’s rise as a global golf hub but aimed firmly at the world stage.
A LEAP OF FAITH: From Finance to Fairways
Few career switches are as dramatic as leaving investment banking for professional sport. For Bastaki, however, the move was less about abandoning one world than discovering another.
“Golf mirrors life,” he explains. “In banking, every decision carries weight. In golf, every shot has consequences. Both demand discipline, focus, and resilience.”
As golf grew in visibility across the UAE, he noticed a gap: while young Emiratis were increasingly interested in the game, there were few Emirati professionals formally qualified to guide and inspire them. That realisation became the turning point.
“I was fortunate to learn under qualified PGA professionals,” he says. “But I understood that if we wanted to build a sustainable golfing culture, someone from my generation needed to step up. That’s why I left banking to pursue the PGA pathway.”
For Bastaki, the move was about far more than personal ambition. It was a commitment to represent his country on the international stage while simultaneously helping to cultivate a deeper golfing culture at home.
GROWING THE GAME BEYOND BORDERS
The UAE has long positioned itself as a crossroads of cultures, and golf is no exception. With world-class venues such as Emirates Golf Club, Yas Links, and Jumeirah Golf Estates, the country has become a destination for elite tournaments and a proving ground for local talent.
Bastaki sees this as an opportunity. “The UAE is uniquely positioned to inspire inclusivity in golf,” he says. “Our society brings together people of every background, and our facilities are world-class. That’s a model the rest of the world can learn from.”
His work with the Special Olympics UAE has been particularly meaningful. Competing as a unified partner alongside golfer Ali Saif Bin Summaidaa at the 2023 World Games in Germany, Bastaki helped secure a silver medal. The experience reinforced his belief that golf can be a tool for empowerment, especially for children of determination.
“The joy on a young person’s face when they hit a ball for the first time is priceless,” he recalls. “That moment alone makes all the effort worthwhile.”
Beyond inclusivity, Bastaki is also focused on affordability and accessibility. He champions the idea of introducing municipal golf courses in the UAE—shorter, less expensive facilities designed for beginners. “If implemented thoughtfully, such courses could open doors for a whole new generation,” he says.
GOLF AS A PLATFORM FOR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
While many see golf as a sport of skill and patience, Bastaki views it as a lifestyle that can transform health and well-being. His own transition from finance to sport highlighted the need to prioritise both physical and mental performance.
In 2024, he partnered with The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World company, undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatments and a programme designed to enhance cognitive function. The results, he says, were remarkable: “My cognitive performance improved by around 30%. I was sharper, more energised, sleeping better. It was a pivotal step in preparing for professional golf.”
This focus extended to his collaboration with The Flow Space, a Dubai-based clinic specialising in physical longevity and gut health. Using datadriven assessments, they built a performance plan that now sees him swinging at tour-level speeds and competing with renewed resilience.
“Modern professional golf is about measurable standards,” he notes. “It’s not just about how far you hit the ball, but how clearly you think, how well you breathe, how you recover. These partnerships have
“Every child deserves the chance to dream,” Bastaki says. “With Ali, I witnessed incredible resilience. With Faye, I saw the courage of a young Emirati girl determined to take on the world. Their stories remind me that if we create the right environment, amazing things can happen.”
helped me show that living well is inseparable from playing well.”
Through his social media platforms, Bastaki shares these insights openly, often posting not just polished practice sessions but also the days when motivation is low. “Honesty matters,” he says. “Not every day feels like a victory, but the discipline of showing up—that’s the real lesson.”
INSPIRING A GENERATION
Perhaps the most defining aspect of Bastaki’s journey is his commitment to mentoring young athletes. He currently supports several emerging golfers, including Ali Saif Bin Summaidaa, the Special Olympics silver medallist, and Faye Mohammed AlBlooshi, who topped the Emirates Golf Federation’s women’s Order of Merit in the 2023/24 season.
“Every child deserves the chance to dream,” Bastaki says. “With Ali, I witnessed incredible resilience. With Faye, I saw the courage of a young Emirati girl determined to take on the world. Their stories remind me that if we create the right environment, amazing things can happen.”
This ethos also extends to his work with the Ajman Society of Social & Cultural Development, where he has helped organise golf sessions for young women from low-income families. At one event, some participants hit shots nearly 100 yards despite never having touched a club before. “They didn’t want to leave the course,” he recalls. “That joy—that’s the power of golf.”
Looking ahead, Bastaki is working on a structured programme with the Ajman Society to introduce Emirati girls to golf, using the sport not only to teach technique but also life skills like integrity, discipline, and even basic science through the physics of the swing.
THE ROAD AHEAD
As he continues his PGA studies and competitive journey, Bastaki is clear about his long-term vision. Over the next five years, he hopes to balance competing in select PGA events with mentoring the next generation of Emirati golfers. His broader mission, however, is timeless: to inspire young dreamers, wherever they may be.
“Whether it’s a child picking up a club in Dubai or a teenager on the other side of the world watching online, I want them to feel that their journey is possible too,” he says.
He also sees a strong future for regional competition. The relaunch of the MENA Golf Tour, he believes, is an essential step for Middle Eastern and North African golfers who dream of reaching the European or PGA Tours. “Every player needs a platform,” he says. “The MENA Tour provides that first stepping stone.”
And through it all, he remains rooted in the courses that shaped him. Emirates Golf Club, where he first held a membership, remains his “home of golf,” while Yas Links holds a special place as his second. His golfing hero? Seve Ballesteros, for his creativity, passion, and refusal to be bound by convention.
BUILDING BRIDGES
For Omar Bastaki, golf is not simply about chasing titles or personal achievement. It is about building bridges—between cultures, between abilities, and between generations. His story reflects the UAE’s wider sporting ambition: to create a culture of excellence that resonates far beyond its borders.
“Ultimately,” he says, “if my journey inspires even one or two young people to dream bigger, then I have succeeded.”
BRAND AMBASSADOR
FOCUS, FAIRWAYS AND A FRESH DRIVE FOR SUCCESS
Now splitting his time between the UK and the UAE, Gill is preparing for another big step forward — and, as he puts it, “every week is about moving closer to that next level.”
ENGLAND CALL-UPS AND EARLY LESSONS
Gill’s golfing journey began like many English talents — through a mix of raw enthusiasm and strong local roots. “As an amateur, I played for England five times and was part of the England Men’s Team for two years,” he recalls proudly. “It was something I always wanted to achieve, and I’ll always look back on those experiences as a great accomplishment.”
Representing his country sharpened his competitive instincts and instilled the discipline needed for life on tour. “It teaches you how to travel, how to prepare properly, and how to perform under pressure,” he says. “When you’re part of a national setup, you’re surrounded by some of the best players in the country. You can’t help but learn and raise your own
That education paid off quickly. By 2019, No. 52 in the World and No. 2 in the European Men’s Golf Rankings. It was the perfect launchpad to turn professional
“I’d had a really solid final year as an amateur,” he says. “I was confident and felt ready. The transition can be tough, but the experience of representing England gave me the belief that I could compete at the
BREAKTHROUGHS AND THE PROFESSIONAL MINDSET
Gill turned professional in August 2019 — and it didn’t take long for him to make an impression. Just months into his new career, he secured his first MENA Tour victory, a milestone that proved pivotal. “That first win meant a lot,” he says. “It was only three or four months after I’d turned pro, and it earned me an invitation to the Oman Open on the European Tour the following week. That experience was incredible.”
Since then, he’s built an impressive résumé nine professional wins and over 40 top-10 finishes across
various tours — achievements that have helped establish him as one of the most consistent performers on the regional and developmental circuits.
When asked which part of his game has evolved most since turning professional, Gill doesn’t hesitate. “Definitely my putting,” he says. “It’s become a real strength. But overall, everything’s improved — I’m stronger physically, and mentally, I’m far more accepting of the ups and downs that come with professional golf.”
He’s learned that mindset can be the deciding factor between good and great weeks. “The Qualifying events are always the toughest mentally — there’s so much pressure to perform,” he says. “That’s when you have to draw on past experiences and stay positive. I try to approach every event the same way, whether it’s a smaller regional event or a DP World Tour qualifier. You can’t afford to change who you are just because of the stage.”
GUIDED BY GREATS
Like many successful professionals, Gill’s progress has been shaped by a remarkable group of mentors. “I’ve been lucky to work with some fantastic coaches,” he says. “Steve Rose coached me from age 13. Then when I represented Yorkshire, I worked with John King, and with England Golf, Graham Walker was instrumental in developing my game.”
Each phase of his journey introduced new insights and refinements. “They all helped me develop technically, but also mentally — understanding how to manage a golf course and not just hit good shots,” he explains.
When Gill turned pro, another name entered the mix — legendary coach Pete Cowen, whose influence runs deep through the elite game. “Working with Pete has been amazing,” says Gill. “His knowledge is second to none, and he’s helped me really understand my swing and my patterns. Nick Huby has also been a big help at Pete’s academy in Rotherham — they’ve both given me a lot of structure.”
Gill also credits performance coach Keir Stockdale with helping him manage the mental side of the sport. “Keir’s work has been massive for me — especially in learning to step away from overthinking the swing and focusing more on performance and process.”
That mental clarity has been invaluable when competing abroad, especially in the UAE, where he’s often based during the winter. “When I’m in Dubai, Stephen Deane helps me keep things on track,” he says. “It’s great to have someone who knows my game and can keep me pointing in the right direction.”
Behind it all, though, stands his family.
“
“ His experience from the DP World Tour gives the MENA Golf Tour real credibility and direction.
“My dad’s been a huge influence,” Gill says warmly. “He doesn’t play, but he’s always pushed me to keep improving and not get too comfortable. My brother Spencer caddies for me when he can — it’s great to have him out there. He knows me as well as anyone.”
Gill is also quick to acknowledge the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) for their support. “They’ve given me some amazing opportunities to play on the Challenge Tour and Clutch Pro Tour,” he says. “Their dedication to developing golf in the UAE is incredible, and I’m really grateful to be part of that.”
THE ROAD AHEAD
For a player as focused as Gill, there’s never been any doubt about his direction. “The main goal is to get onto the DP World Tour or the Asian Tour as soon as possible,” he says. “I’ve got DP World Tour
Qualifying School coming up in a few weeks. I made it to the final stage last year but missed out on a card — so hopefully this time it’s different.”
That hunger drives every day on the range. “Everyone at this level is working toward the same thing — getting to the big tours. The difference comes down to consistency, belief, and patience,” he says. “You’ve got to enjoy the process even when it’s tough.”
Gill’s long-term outlook is pragmatic but ambitious. “I just want to keep progressing — every year a little better than the last,” he says. “If I keep doing that, I know the results will come.”
THE MENA GOLF TOUR CONNECTION
Gill’s story is closely tied to the MENA Golf Tour, where he earned his first professional win and plenty of valuable experience. “The MENA Golf Tour has always been special to me,” he says. “When I turned pro, it was the first circuit I looked at playing. A lot of my friends were in the same position, and we all gravitated toward it because it offered the best opportunities over the winter.”
Beyond the competition, the tour offered adventure and exposure. “We travelled to incredible places and played some great courses,” he says. “Those experiences helped me grow up fast as a professional — learning how to manage travel, adapt to different conditions, and stay focused.”
Now, with the MENA Golf Tour returning for its highly anticipated relaunch, Gill sees big things ahead. “It’s brilliant to see it coming back,” he says. “It’s more global this year with a few events in Portugal and across Europe, but it’ll eventually return to the Middle East. That mix is fantastic — it gives European players a way to stay sharp through the winter while maintaining that strong link to the region.”
He believes the Tour’s revival fills a vital gap in the professional landscape. “It’s so important to have a developmental tour here,” he says.
“It’s been missing for a couple of years, but now it gives players — both local and international — a proper stage to compete, earn, and improve. That’s invaluable for golf in this part of the world.”
Gill is also quick to praise the leadership behind the new chapter. “Having Keith Waters as Commissioner is a huge positive,” he says. “His experience from the DP World Tour gives the MENA Golf Tour real credibility and direction.”
And one detail stands out to every player — fast payments. “Prize money being paid out within 48 hours of an event finishing is unheard of,” Gill laughs. “On development tours, players often wait weeks for payments, which can make it tough financially. It’s a small thing that makes a massive difference. It shows the Tour understands what players actually need.”
BALANCE, DRIVE AND PERSPECTIVE
Off the course, Gill is grounded, easygoing, and passionate about sport in general. “I’m a big Liverpool fan,” he admits with a grin. “And I follow Formula 1 closely — mostly Red Bull and McLaren.”
That love of competition, whether on a football pitch or an F1 circuit, mirrors his own approach to golf. “I love analysing performance — seeing how the best in the world prepare and adapt. There’s always something to learn from top athletes, no matter the sport.”
When it comes to downtime, Gill values simplicity. “I enjoy spending time with friends and family, getting away from golf when I can,” he says. “You need those breaks to stay fresh mentally. The game can be demanding — so balance is key.”
A PLAYER BUILT ON CONSISTENCY AND CHARACTER
Bailey Gill might not be one for grand gestures or bold proclamations, but his steady rise through the ranks tells its own story. With technical precision, mental strength, and a network of top mentors behind him, he’s quietly building toward the next level of his career.
Whether it’s grinding through DP World Tour Qualifying School or teeing it up in the desert heat on the MENA Tour, his focus never wavers. “I’ve always been taught to keep my head down and do the work,” he says. “Golf rewards patience — you can’t force it. You just keep improving and let the results come.”
And for Gill, that next big result feels closer than ever.
“ Every week is a step toward that next level. You’ve just got to trust the process and keep improving. “
• Official WHS handicap, recognized worldwide (applicable for EGF Direct members only) • Discounted green fees at UAE golf clubs
Play in events / competitions and receive awards
Third party and property damage golfer’s insurance
By Rick Bevan
AHMAD SHINES ON FALDO JUNIOR TOUR
AHMED CLOSES AT SIX UNDER AS MATURI AND CHAUDHURI BOOK GRAND FINAL SPOTS
After three days of intense action at The Els Club Dubai, UAE National Team member Rayhan Ahmad walked away with top honours as he was crowned overall and Boys U21 champion after finishing an impressive six under par —t the prestigious Faldo Junior Tour event last month.
“I started the day five clear and stuck to the plan – hit greens, don’t chase,” said Ahmad, who signed for 210 (70-67-73). “I didn’t make much with the putter today, but my approaches all week were tight. Rescue to 20 feet up 18, rolled it in – nice way to finish.”
Ahmad’s total stood up to a properly tournament-tough setup on Ernie’s desert classic. Only four players beat par across 54 holes, with The Els Club’s Adrian Larsson closing in 214 (73-72-69) for second. The week’s low number belonged to Thomas Buchard, who lit the board with a 66 on the final day.
Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Lucia Maturi handled the spiciest Sunday pins best to claim Girls 21 & Under on 232 (77-76-79). “When the flags were tucked I took the bigger side of the green – bank the par, keep momentum,” she
said. “From the ladies’ tees I could be more aggressive and leave 60 yards in. That set up the few birdies we needed on a tricky day.”
In Girls 16 & Under, India’s Anuradha Chaudhuri was tidy from start to finish, winning on 214 (71-71-72) from the UAE’s Alina Saleem (220; 72-75-73). “Friends have made the Grand Final,” Chaudhuri smiled. “No one’s won it. That’s the target—and the bragging rights.”
Boys 16 & Under went to A. Rushika on 215 (74-69-72), one ahead of JGE’s Leo Salthouse (216; 74-70-72).
This is a 54-hole WAGR event backed by The R&A, plugged straight into the Emirates Golf Federation Junior Order of Merit. Crucially, category winners qualify for the Faldo Series Grand Final at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, 23–26 March 2026 – with accommodation, transfers, practice round, lunches and gala night all covered. It’s a week that moves CVs and unlocks starts.
“Events like this load the WAGR points and slot perfectly before JGE’s Tommy Fleetwood Pathway Series and the Asia-Pacific Amateur,” said Ahmad. “Exactly the kind of rhythm you want.”
“We want this to feel like a junior Major,” said Tom Rourke, General Manager, The Els Club Dubai. “First-tee experience, scoreboards, conditions—the lot—so the kids feel they’re inside a professional week. Our link with CH3 Performance Golf Academy helps too; their US scholarship track record is proven and weeks like this open doors.”
The numbers backed it up: 76 players, 29 nationalities, and just four under par for the week. Proper test, proper winners.
“EVENTS LIKE THIS LOAD THE WAGR POINTS AND SLOT PERFECTLY BEFORE JGE’S TOMMY FLEETWOOD PATHWAY SERIES AND THE ASIA-PACIFIC AMATEUR,” SAID AHMAD. “EXACTLY THE KIND OF RHYTHM YOU WANT.”
AL HAMRA GOLF CLUB SET TO REOPEN NEWLY ENHANCED HOLES THIS NOVEMBER
In great news for golfers across the region and beyond, Al Hamra Golf Club has announced the reopening of its newly enhanced holes - 6, 8, 15, 16, and 17 - this November. The upgrades mark a significant milestone in the club’s continuous commitment to improving the player experience and maintaining worldclass course standards.
Following months of careful renovation and refinement, these holes, redesigned by original course designer Peter Harradine, have been reshaped to elevate playability, aesthetics, and course conditioning, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable round for both guests and members.
“Our goal was to enhance the strategic
character of each hole while preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the course,” said Dindy Macatlang, Course Superintendent at Al Hamra Golf Club.
“The improvements being made to holes 6, 8, 15, 16, and 17 are focused on strategy, aesthetics, and playability, all with the goal of offering a better golfing experience.”
The renovation project forms part of Al Hamra Golf Club’s broader vision to continually evolve as one of the UAE’s premier golf destinations. With the reopening, players can look forward to smoother surfaces, more defined playing corridors, and refreshed landscapes that blend challenge with charm.
Paul
Booth, General Manager of Al
Hamra Golf Club, added: “We’re excited to welcome our members and guests back to a full 18-hole course that’s better than ever. These enhancements are a reflection of our ongoing investment in quality and the passion we have for delivering memorable golf in Ras Al Khaimah. With the upcoming Wynn opening in Ras Al Khaimah, this is also a perfect time to showcase the Emirate as a world-class golf and leisure destination.”
With the reopening, all 18 holes at Al Hamra Golf Club will once again be in full play, just in time for the peak golfing season and for visitors looking to experience Ras Al Khaimah’s growing appeal as a luxury destination.
SECURE YOUR TICKETS FROM ONLY AED 190 FOR SATURDAY 15 TH OR SUNDAY 16 TH NOVEMBER
