Rory McIlroy chases desert dreams

Edited by Anand Datla

Abu Dhabi, UAE. 13 January, 2015: Four of the world’s best golfers today touched down in the Middle East to tee off the tenth anniversary celebrations for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.  World No 1 Rory McIlroy, World No 2 Henrik Stenson, World No 6 Justin Rose and US sensation Rickie Fowler headed into the desert with only one destination in mind – major success.

The Northern Irishman said: “Greatness in golf is winning Major Championships but after playing in Abu Dhabi for so many years and having come so close in the past, I would love nothing more than to win at the event’s 10 year anniversary. That would be something very special and would mean a lot to me.”

Fowler, who finished in the top five at every 2014 Major, added: “Beginning my season in Abu Dhabi will be a fresh approach for me. A big win against a very strong field will give me an early boost and plenty of confidence heading into the Majors later in the year.”

Henrik Stenson said: “It’s truly a world-class event on a world-class course and year-on-year it consistently attracts the strongest field in the Gulf – I’ve always found it the best possible way to start my season.’

Englishman Rose added: “Winning a Major championship has always been my goal, and I have to say, winning in Abu Dhabi in its tenth year would also be a dream.”

HSBC Global Head of Sponsorship and Events Giles Morgan said: “This is probably the most important start to a golfing year in decades and we are thrilled that some of the world’s best golfers have chosen to tee off with us here in Abu Dhabi – it’s the perfect way to celebrate ten years of a tournament that has earned the reputation of the jewel in the crown of Middle Eastern golf.

“The last twelve months has seen changing of the guard at the top of golf’s global leaderboard and the year ahead promises to be a thrilling ride – it really is anyone’s game.”

The world’s top players roll into the UAE capital for the four-day ‘Gulf Swing’ opener which takes place at Abu Dhabi Golf Club January 15-18.

Three-time Abu Dhabi champion Martin Kaymer, South African legend Ernie Els, Ryder Cup stars Jamie Donaldson and Victor Dubuisson and defending champion Pablo Larrazabal are also lining up for the US$2.7 million showpiece.