How Dubai teens shared McIlroy’s Masters moment

Staying up past 3 a.m. to witness Rory McIlroy finally conquer the Masters and complete the career Grand Slam was a sacrifice well worth making for golf fans in the UAE.

From the heartbreak of surrendering a four-stroke lead with eight holes to play to the euphoria of sinking a birdie putt on the first playoff hole to claim the elusive Green Jacket, McIlroy's rollercoaster journey rewarded every sleep-deprived fan who tuned in.

Social media lit up with scenes of fans gathering at golf clubs across the UAE, cheering every birdie, alongside others watching from the comfort of their living rooms, hanging on to every stroke the Northern Irishman played.

While many in the UAE stayed glued to their screens, two Dubai-based teenagers experienced the magic firsthand in Georgia.

Oscar and Mo Craig, stepsons of seven-time DP World Tour winner Tommy Fleetwood, were seen on screen shaking hands and embracing McIlroy on his triumphant walk to the Butler Cabin to collect his Green Jacket.

The brothers, who have called Dubai home since 2022, were among the first to congratulate the now five-time Major champion after his play-off victory over Justin Rose.

They joined McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, his daughter, Poppy, and fellow golfers Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood in celebrating the historic achievement at Augusta National

Oscar Craig made international headlines last year when he made the cut at his Challenge Tour debut at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, with Fleetwood himself caddying. Shooting rounds of 69 and 73 on the Gary Player-designed course, he was the only amateur to make the cut that week.

Mo Craig has also been making a name for himself on the UAE golf scene. Earlier this year, he claimed the Boys’ Division A Gross Award at the 8th British Schools of the Middle East (BSME) Golf Open, further showcasing the family’s golfing pedigree.