The Abu Dhabi Invitational, an annual pro-am golf event sanctioned by the European Tour, returns to the UAE sports calendar this month after a three-year hiatus.
The tournament, supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, takes place at Yas Links on January 25 and 26.
Previously a single-day event established in 2007, it has been extended this year so that Day 1 comprises 56 professionals playing alongside their “VVIP” amateur partners for a US$500,000 (Dh1.84 million) purse. The proceeds go to charity. Day 2 is reserved solely for amateurs.
Victor Dubuisson, the world No 17, heads the field of professionals and is joined by 2014 European Ryder Cup teammates Thomas Bjorn and Stephen Gallacher.
Matteo Manassero, the Abu Dhabi global golf ambassador, and Pablo Larrazabal, winner of last year’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, are also confirmed.
The amateur roster includes Andriy Shevchenko, the former AC Milan and Chelsea footballer.
“We are delighted to be hosting the Abu Dhabi Invitational at Yas Links,” said Aref Hamad Al Awani, general secretary at Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
“Over the years it has earned its reputation as one of the most prestigious ‘must-play’ pro-ams in golf.”
Richie Ramsay, winner in 2012 and therefore the defending champion, said: “It’s fantastic to have the Abu Dhabi Invitational back on the calendar in 2015. and I’m really looking forward to defending my title at Yas Links.
“I’ve been putting in a lot of practice over the winter to make sure I can put myself in contention again.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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