Rory McIlroy is gearing up for an exciting start to his 2024 season at the much-awaited Dubai Invitational, a premier event that fans can catch live on Sky Sports. Fresh off a triumphant 2023 season that began with a win at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and concluded with his fifth Race to Dubai championship, McIlroy is eager to continue his success.
Last year, the 34-year-old golfer added to his impressive Dubai legacy, securing his fifth title there. His past victories include triumphs at the Dubai Desert Classic in both 2009 and 2015, and clinching the DP World Tour Championship twice, in 2012 and 2015. As he leads a 60-player line-up, McIlroy is focused on furthering his achievements in the Middle East.
Joining McIlroy at the Dubai Creek Resort are his Ryder Cup colleagues, including Tommy Fleetwood and Nicolai Højgaard. These players were instrumental in Team Europe's remarkable 16.5-11.5 victory in Rome last September, alongside winning captain Luke Donald, who is also participating in the event.
The Dubai Invitational boasts a star-studded field with notable golfers such as four-time DP World Tour winner Adrian Meronk, BMW PGA Championship defender Ryan Fox, and 2018 Ryder Cup standout Francesco Molinari. Many winners from the 2023 Race to Dubai are also set to make a strong start to the season.
Scheduled to occur bi-annually, the Dubai Invitational marks the first stop of the International Swing in the DP World Tour's new 2024 lineup, with future tournaments already planned for 2026 and 2028. The event is set as a 72-hole individual stroke play competition, accompanied by a three-day Pro-Am team contest. The final day will feature professionals only.
Amateurs can either stick with the same professional for the first two rounds or switch after the first day. The leading amateur team will be determined based on the lowest 54-hole total.
Among the amateurs participating are DP World Tour CEO Keith Pelley, celebrating his 60th birthday this week, and PGA Tour's policy board vice-chairman Jimmy Dunne. The event also sees sports legends like former NFL stars Larry Fitzgerald and John Elway, and ex-Manchester United forward Dwight Yorke.
Additionally, the amateur roster includes high-profile businessmen like Hero MotoCorp chairman Dr. Pawan Munjal, along with other influential figures actively involved in the golfing world. The Dubai Invitational thus promises to be a blend of professional excellence and high-profile amateur participation, making it a standout event in the golfing calendar.
