Dubai: Henrik Stenson will be looking to replicate his 2007 victory when he returns to compete in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club from February 4-7.
The 39-year-old Swede finished ahead of an all-star cast, including Tiger Woods, when he birdied the last to win by a stroke clear of Ernie Els at 19 under par at the Majlis Course nine years ago.
Having finished tied for third at last week’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship despite recent knee surgery, he is now looking to draw inspiration from his 2007 win to reclaim honours on what was home turf — with the player a one-time Dubai resident for 10 years before moving to the US in 2012.
“It feels nice to get back to a golf course where you have played a number of times,” said the World No. 6, who in 2013 became the first golfer to win tour championships on both sides of the Atlantic in a single season.
“I like the course because it has very good variation. You don’t get tired of playing on it. You can play over and over again and still it’s fun.
“There are not too many courses I know better than the Majlis. I feel like I know this course inside out, and had the success in 2007 and another couple of high finishes. So it’s really an enjoyable week for me in Dubai.”
Mohammad Juma Bu Amim, vice chairman and Chief Executive Officer of tournament organisers Golf in Dubai, said: “We are delighted to welcome back our former champion, who is a great friend of Dubai and one who enjoys a tremendous fan following here.
“If Henrik has been one of the most sought-after players on Tour, it is because of hard work and total dedication to the game. His presence will certainly bring special energy to any tournament. I wish him the very best and hope he has a great year with the 2016 Olympics on the horizon.”
