The Dubai Golf Trophy, one of the most prestigious events in the UAE golfing calendar, returns for its 25th edition from the 14th-15th April, with the Amateur Team looking to defend the title they cruised to last year.
The event pits the country’s top 16 Professionals against the top 16 Amateurs over two days, following a Ryder Cup-style format, with the 25th edition set to take place on the Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club and the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
The Amateur Team displayed their dominance over their Professional counterparts in a resounding victory of 19.5-12.5 in 2023, as they reclaimed the trophy following 54 thrilling holes at Jumeirah Golf Estates and Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.
That victory came a year after the Professional Team finally put an end to the Amateur’s dominance of six straight victories.
“The establishment of the Dubai Golf Trophy underscores our commitment to growing the profile of golf through a competitive and enjoyable format between amateur and professional golfers in the UAE,” said Chris May, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Golf.
“This Ryder Cup-style event provides both teams with a platform to showcase their skills in a spirit of sportsmanship following a rigorous season marked by EGF and UAE PGA Order of Merit tournaments.
“We eagerly anticipate the season-ending spectacle on two of the region's finest courses and extend a warm welcome to all participants. We wish both teams the best of luck for what promises to be an exceptional two days of golf.”.
Each team comprises 12 automatic qualifiers from the season-long UAE PGA tournaments and qualifying Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) events across the UAE.
Additionally, team captains select four ‘wildcard’ picks and two ladies on both sides.
Louis Gaughan will lead the Professional Team, while Barry Pavic will captain the Amateur Team.
“I am honoured to captain the Professional team in the Dubai Golf Trophy 2024 for the 25th edition of this fantastic event,” said Gaughan.
“I believe in what this event stands for, bringing the amateurs and professionals together, strengthening relationships, and ultimately with a common goal of developing golf with the region for everyone.
“With this year’s event taking place slightly earlier than normal, the Professional team is as ready as ever to get back to winning ways.
“I have full belief in this great group of players. Win, lose or draw everyone involved always has a great two days. I feel privileged and grateful to be a part of this event and hope it will continue for many years to come.”
Pavic added: “After last year’s convincing victory by the Amateurs, we can expect a very motivated team of Professionals to reclaim the Trophy. It will be a matter of ‘every putt counts’ and we can expect a very close game up to the very last day.
“However, the continuous increase of talent seen within the Amateur tournaments in the region has proven, again, to deliver a high quality of players which I am proud to lead as Amateur Team Captain.
“We will be ready and look forward to bringing our best game to the golf course with the support from fans and family most welcome to cheer on both teams throughout the two days. It’s going to be a fantastic event.”
The two-day 2024 Dubai Golf Trophy will commence on Sunday 14th April for morning Foursomes and afternoon Fourball matches on the Faldo Course, before the event concludes with the Singles matches on Monday 15th April on the Earth course.
