Dubai: Three-time Omega Dubai Desert Classic runner-up Lee Westwood will hope to go one better from January 31 to February 3 next year after confirming his attendance for the European Tour’s traditional curtain-raiser.
The 39-year-old Englishman, who has recorded 39 wins since turning professional in 1993, has continually fallen just short at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course, taking three second places in 1999, 2010 and 2012. But he remains determined to finally take the honours at the 2013 staging.
“I have always enjoyed playing in this tournament,” the former World No 1 said. “It’s a big event, which attracts some of the world’s leading players each year, and hopefully I will be able to get the job done this time around.
“I know the Majlis Course well and it’s a good golf course. They set it up great and I know my game is good enough to win when I play well enough. That’s what I try to do. After that it’s out of your hands. All I can do is keep getting into contention.
“You have to be at your best if you aim to succeed and the plan is the same — just to go out and enjoy,” added the three-time European Tour Player of the Year and two-time European Tour Order of Merit winner.
Mohammad Bu Amim, Vice Chairman and CEO of Golf in Dubai, said: “Lee has been competing regularly in our tournament since 1994 and that amply reflects the bond we share, which is greater than just friendship.
“We look forward to welcoming him next month and wish him the very best. His presence will certainly add to the buzz of the tournament atmosphere.”
