One of the most promising prospects in world golf, Viktor Hovland, makes his Omega Dubai Desert Classic in two weeks time looking to mix it with the superstars and increase his chances of a maiden Ryder Cup berth later this year.
The Norwegian turned professional last summer after a stunning amateur career and quickly established himself at the highest level, forging out a record-breaking run of scoring on the PGA Tour with 19 consecutive rounds in the 60s.
Now the big-hitting 22-year-old is bringing his game to Dubai for the first time to line up against a host Major champions, former Desert Classic champions and multiple European Tour winners.
“I’ve spent the last few years playing mostly in America, so I’m excited to have the opportunity to come to Dubai,” said the youngster, who is eyeing a potential European Ryder Cup debut later this year. “One of the great things since turning professional has been playing so many events and courses that I have watched growing up and I can’t think of a better place to kickstart 2020 than at Emirates GC in a couple of weeks.
“It would mean everything to be part of the team. Even though professional golf is really cool, I loved college golf and being part of a winning team and I still think about the times we had. There’s nothing better. I think it’s almost the pinnacle of golf.” – Viktor Hovland
Stronger field
This year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic boasts a stronger field than 12 months ago with defending Champion Bryson DeChambeau teeing it up alongside Tommy Fleetwood, Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood, European Ryder Cup Captain Padraig Harrington and the likes of Thomas Bjørn, Rafa Cabrera Bello, Sergio Garcia, Haotong Li, Henrik Stenson and Danny Willett also entered.
This year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic is held from January 23-26 and will once again be played on the Majlis course at Emirates Golf Club.
