Fresh from his impressive – if somewhat controversial – showing at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, Rory McIlroy will be in Dubai to officially open a brand new Nike Golf stand-alone store in Dubai Mall.
McIlroy, who finished joint-runner-up in Abu Dhabi by one stroke after collecting a two-shot penalty, will open the store on Monday January 27 at 7pm ahead of his return to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
While the 24-year-old Nike golfer will be on hand to open the store, it will not be done in the traditional way. Instead of cutting a ribbon, McIlroy will putt into the shop front to officially declare it open for business.
Consumers are invited to join the Nike Golf staff from 6.30pm, with McIlroy making his 30-minute appearance from 7pm. After he officially opens the store, it will be ready for business at 7.30pm.
Within weeks of the Nike Golf store opening, visitors will be able to purchase the latest Nike Golf clubs, balls, footwear, apparel and accessories.
“As our brand in golf continues to resonate with more and more consumers, we are delighted to be partnering with Sun and Sand Sports in the UAE to open a new stand-alone Nike Golf retail experience,” said Nike Golf EMEA General Manager Angus Moir.
“The UAE has done an excellent job in building a fantastic golf destination and we are confident that being able to visit such a unique Nike Golf store in one of the worlds’ best shopping malls will further add to the attraction of UAE to golfers from all over the globe.”
Mohammad Baker, Deputy Chairman of Sun & Sand Sports, commented: “We are very pleased to be launching Nike Golf, the world’s most prestigious golf brand in Dubai Mall.
“This stand-alone store will feature men’s, women’s and kids’ golfwear – as well as the latest clubs, equipment and spikes – all designed to bring out the athlete in every golfer. We look forward to welcoming visitors and shoppers to the store.”
Following his role in the opening of the Nike Golf store, McIlroy will continue his preparation for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic where the Ulsterman will be part of an illustrious field vying for the title.
Indeed, McIlroy’s first professional win on the European Tour was achieved at the Dubai Desert Classic in February 2009, and having missed last year’s event, the world No6 will be gunning for glory at the tournament’s 25th anniversary.
McIlroy will be joined at the Emirates Golf Club by a host of top-class players, including world No3 and Race to Dubai winner Henrik Stenson, three-time Dubai Desert Classic champion and former No1 Ernie Els, and the reigning world No1 and 14-time Major winner Tiger Woods.
