Bryson DeChambeau returns to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic this week as a professional, three years after sealing the Amateur Medal in his maiden appearance at the ‘Major of the Middle East’, and the American is desperate to secure a first European Tour title after missing out on victory at the 2018 Porsche European Open.
The 25 year old led Richard McEvoy by one after 14 holes in the final round at Green Eagle Golf Courses before dramatically collapsing over the next four holes with back-to-back double bogeys along with dropping a further three shots on the last. DeChambeau finished the event tied 13th and is eager to put things right this weekend at the stunning Emirates Golf Club.
“I really need to get a European Tour win,” he smiles. “I came close last year but it wasn’t to be. It would be fantastic to get the win out here in Dubai at such a prestigious tournament like the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. I played here in 2016 when Danny Willett won and it was such a great experience playing on such an iconic course as an amateur. It’s a beautiful track and the weather is always great so I’m really looking forward to teeing off on Thursday.”
The five-time PGA Tour winner is considered a ‘Golf Scientist’ due to his quirky approach to the game which includes having a set of single-length irons in the bag as well as using a compass to determine “true pin locations” which was later banned by the USGA. So how has the 2015 U.S. Amateur winner reacted to the introduction of the new Rules of Golf?
“I’m a big fan of leaving the flag in,” he says. “I’ve been testing it out the past couple of events I’ve played and it’s been working really well for me. I’ve analysed the stats and they’re showing me that I’m more likely to sink a putt with the pin in so, for now, I’ll definitely be keeping it in until that changes. Some players don’t like it as they aren’t used to putting with the flag there but it’s never been a problem for me.”
The 30th edition of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic will be held at Emirates Golf Club from 24 – 27 January 2019.
