Ahead of the 2017 Omega Dubai Desert Classic, starting Thursday, John McAuley gives his picks of the five players to watch out for.
Martin Kaymer
Known more for his record around Abu Dhabi’s National Course, the German has done plenty to impress on the Majlis, too. In seven starts, Kaymer has finished runner-up once and fourth three times, although last year he missed the cut. However, his tied-fourth in the capital two weeks ago suggested the two-time major champion’s game is in decent nick.
Rafa Cabrera Bello
A Desert Swing specialist, the Dubai resident loves the Middle East, as evidenced by his 2012 Dubai win, while last year he finished runner-up in both Dubai and Qatar. The Spaniard has already shown signs of early season form, at one point leading in Abu Dhabi before coming home just inside the top 20. Last week, Cabrera Bello finished tied-sixth in Qatar.
Tyrrell Hatton
One of the rising stars of the European Tour, Hatton enjoyed an excellent conclusion to last season, posting a first victory and three more top 10s from six events. That form carried over into 2017, with the Englishman leading going into the final round in Abu Dhabi before finishing tied-13th. Likes the Majlis, having finished tied-eighth last year.
Chris Wood
A welcome return to form last week in Qatar, where the 2013 winner came home tied-11th. Wood certainly has the tools to prosper in Dubai as well, on a course that plays to his length off the tee and, should it get windy as expected, will suit too. Boasts a strong record on the Majlis: tied-10th in 2011 and tied-eighth last year.
Andy Sullivan
A poor start to 2017 suggests not, but the three-time winner on tour should contend in Dubai again this week. Sullivan was joint-second last year, tied-fourth in 2015 and tied-12th in 2013, so clearly enjoys the Majlis. Plus, he played his way back into form last week, contending at the halfway stage in Qatar before eventually finishing tied-28th. Began last season poorly, then starred in Dubai.
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