The countdown is on for the second edition of the DP World Tour Play-Offs, with excitement building after an official launch event at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, featuring special guest Paul Waring, reigning Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship winner.
Following the success of the inaugural Play-Offs in 2024, which saw course records tumble at Yas Links and record crowds at Jumeirah Golf Estates, the spotlight will once again turn to the UAE next month.
The action begins with the 20th Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship from 6–9 November, where the top 70 players on the Race to Dubai Rankings will battle for the Falcon Trophy. The field then narrows to the top 50 for the season-ending DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates from 13–16 November, where the Race to Dubai Champion will be crowned.
Waring, who claimed his maiden Rolex Series title at Yas Links last year, reflected on his career-defining win:
“Winning the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship was one of the most memorable moments of my career. Although I won’t be competing this year due to injury, I’m excited to watch the action unfold at both events.”
Reigning Race to Dubai champion Rory McIlroy has already confirmed his participation as he targets an unprecedented seventh season-long crown, edging closer to Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight. He will be joined by Ludvig Åberg, Rasmus and Nicolai Højgaard, Tyrrell Hatton, Matt Fitzpatrick, Robert MacIntyre, Justin Rose, and Alex Noren, ensuring a star-studded field across both weeks.
Event organisers and partners hailed the Play-Offs as a showcase of the UAE’s growing global stature.
“The 20th edition of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship highlights the incredible growth of golf in the UAE,” said H.E. Aref Al Awani, Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
“This unique format creates a compelling finale to the season,” added Tom Phillips, DP World Tour.
With two back-to-back Rolex Series events, world-class fields, and iconic venues, the 2025 DP World Tour Play-Offs promise another unforgettable fortnight of golf in the UAE.
