World No1 Rory McIlory will return to the tournament which kickstarted his phenomenal career after confirming his participation in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
Billed as the ‘Major of the Middle East,’ the 26th edition of the tournament starts at Emirates Golf Club from January 29, and McIlroy will hope to win again on a golf course where he won his first tournament as a professional in 2009.
McIlroy, who has won four major titles since then, will make his ninth appearance in the tournament and joins a galaxy of European top-draws spearheaded by defending champion Stephen Gallacher, world No2 Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell and Lee Westwood.
And McIlroy will also hope to continue the form of 2014, which saw him win back-to-back majors in the Open Championship and the PGA Championship and named ‘Player of the Year’ on both sides of the Atlantic after topping the money lists in Europe and the US.
The Northern Irishman also played a major role in helping Europe to an emphatic 16.5-11.5 win over the United States in the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles. One of the most naturally gifted golfers on the planet, McIlroy’s journey to stardom began with the 2009 Dubai Desert Classic win at the age of 19.
“I’ve got great memories of Dubai and it will be fun to get back to a golf course where I have enjoyed success over the years,” said 25-year-old, who made his first cut on the European Tour, as an amateur at the 2007 Dubai Desert Classic when he was just 17 years old.
“It was nice to get my first professional win in Dubai. I had my parents there with me and it was a special moment that I will never forget. That win was a real stepping stone for the success that followed and my relationship with Dubai went from strength to strength," McIlroy added.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, commented: “We are delighted to welcome back a standout player in a field which exudes the energy of a major with all those big names battling for glory in Dubai.
“We have seen him first compete as an amateur in 2006 and now we will see him contest as the world No1 for the first time. His incredible journey has left indelible footprints in the tournament’s history.
“As his name has become synonymous with the golfing landscape of Dubai, I am confident his presence will radiate distinct energy, one that will rub off well on fans.”
Tickets may be purchased online at www.dubaidesertclassic.com or www.golfindubai.org.
