NFL legends John Elway and Larry Fitzgerald, along with football star Dwight Yorke, are set to headline a 60-strong amateur field at the inaugural Dubai Invitational, which begins tomorrow. The tournament will also feature 60 DP World Tour professionals, including top-ranked golfer Rory McIlroy, European Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald, and World Number 15 Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational, taking place from January 11-14, 2024, at Dubai Creek Resort, will showcase a 72-hole strokeplay DP World Tour tournament alongside a three-day team Pro-Am. General Admission tickets are still available for free registration.
John Elway, widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, will bring his competitive spirit to the golf course at the Dubai Invitational. Larry Fitzgerald, who spent 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, is renowned as one of the greatest wide receivers in the history of American football. Dwight Yorke, a football star with a 19-year professional career, achieved success with Manchester United, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
The Head of Middle East for the DP World Tour, Tom Phillips, expressed excitement about the event, emphasizing Dubai’s remarkable courses, fantastic weather, and passionate golf fans as the perfect combination for a successful tournament. The Dubai Invitational will not only feature world-class golf but also offer spectators a range of thrilling activities and experiences, including golf activations, family entertainment, and various food and beverage options.
Graham Glynn, Championship Director of the Dubai Invitational and DP World Tour, acknowledged the efforts of partners, sponsors, and the team at Dubai Creek Resort in delivering a world-class course and venue for the tournament. With a $2.5 million prize fund and 3,000 Race to Dubai points up for grabs, the Dubai Invitational promises to be a historic event for both professionals and amateurs alike.
In the team Pro-Am competition, one amateur will be paired with one professional, and the team score will be calculated based on the lower of the two members’ scores on each hole over three rounds. The third round will see the leading amateur in the team competition play alongside the leading professional from the individual professional competition.
The DP World Tour is the leading men’s professional golf Tour of the European Tour group. The 2024 global schedule comprises a minimum of 44 tournaments across 24 different countries, with five Rolex Series events and four Major Championships. Rolex sponsors the Race to Dubai Rankings, which conclude at the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai.
As the European Tour group continues to drive innovation, inclusivity, and a global presence in the sport of golf, the DP World Tour has strategic alliances with other prominent organizations, including the PGA TOUR and the Sunshine Tour. These alliances create opportunities for players from around the world to compete internationally.
The inaugural Dubai Invitational promises to be a thrilling competition that combines the best of golf and camaraderie as professionals and amateurs come together to showcase their skills at Dubai Creek Resort. With the participation of renowned athletes such as John Elway, Larry Fitzgerald, and Dwight Yorke, the tournament is sure to captivate the attention of fans and enthusiasts worldwide.
