Gulati secures victory at Faldo Series. as Mateiu triumphs in thrilling girl's title showdow
But the story was far from simple. The drama reached its peak on the 54th tee as Gulati and Ahmed stood tied at eight under par, both in the final group. It was there, on the last hole, that a crucial birdie from Gulati and a double-bogey from Ahmed—who dramatically hooked his drive out of bounds—sealed the deal.
Gulati, who has been honing his game under the guidance of Stephen Deane at Dubai Golf, revealed how critical his mental strength was to his success: "After 45 holes, Ahmed and I were very close. I had to stay mentally strong, especially after a rocky start in the first two rounds. But today, I shot a back nine of 31, with four birdies in a row—it was hugely satisfying."
Gulati is aiming for bigger things ahead, looking to break into the Top 100 of the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR) and secure an exemption for the 2025 US Junior Amateur Championship. For now, though, Gulati is shifting gears—'I have to go into exam mode,' he said, showing his balance of academic and athletic discipline.
His victory also guarantees him a spot in the Faldo Series Grand Final, which will be held later this year at Al Ain, making the win even more rewarding as he prepares for the next level of competition.
In the Girls' Division, it was a tightly contested race between Anca Mateiu from the Emirates Golf Club and Anayaa Sood from The Els Club, Dubai. With rounds of 69, 69, and 66, Mateiu triumphed with a six-under-par total, narrowly edging Sood by a single shot. Both players have proven themselves to be top-tier talents in UAE golf, and their friendly rivalry is one to watch as they continue to push each other to greater heights.
With eight players finishing under par over the three rounds, the Faldo Series has once again highlighted the rising stars of the UAE golfing scene. Gulati and Mateiu are certainly names to watch as they continue to shine on the global stage.
Final Results:
R. Gulati (Dubai Creek) - 70, 66, 65 - 201
A. Mateiu (EGF) - 69, 69, 66 - 204
R. Ahmed (EGF) - 68, 66, 70 - 204
A. Sood (The Els Club, Dubai) - 70, 69, 66 - 205
L. Astrom (Jumeirah Golf Estates) - 68, 69, 68 - 205
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
5 days ago
- Zawya
Saudi: Qiddiya City to become new global golfing hub
Qiddiya City, the world's first city built for play in Saudi Arabia, has announced two key developments that aim to make the city an international golfing hub. Qiddiya City said it has become a global partner of the Faldo Series, the world's leading pathway for young golfers, to help support grass roots golf in the kingdom and internationally, said a Saudi Press Agency (SPA) report. Qiddiya City will be a host venue for the kingdom's Faldo Series events, establishing Qiddiya City as the regional hub for youth golf. Qiddiya City also unveiled on Monday a new, Sir Nick Faldo signature designed 18-hole championship golf course set to open to the public in 2026 along with a state-of-the-art clubhouse, academy and practice facilities open from 2028. Placing a major emphasis on accessibility and innovation, the course features a number of unique design features, including a '3 hole return' layout system to allow greater access for all players. The announcement is also part of Qiddiya City's long-term ambition to become the premier destination in the kingdom for golf, attracting players of all ages and skills from young players to professionals and supporting the next generation of Saudi golf. Qiddiya Investment Company Managing Director Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood said: 'Qiddiya City's partnership with Sir Nick Faldo in designing a new golf course and becoming global partner of the Faldo Series underscores our commitment to growing the game of golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi golfers.' Sir Nick Faldo, commenting on the partnership, added: 'This is a unique opportunity to become involved in one of the most exciting cities being developed today where a new way of city life is fused together with sport, entertainment and culture. Our partnership with Qiddiya City brings together the golf community with a whole nation bubbling with energy to be active and try new sports.' The new flagship golf course is set within a dramatic landscape, nestled against the towering 200-metre cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains. Designed to maximise playability, the course features floodlighting for extended hours and is thoughtfully crafted to challenge professionals while remaining accessible to amateur players. It will also offer tailored learning pathways for newcomers and those looking to elevate their game, combining traditional golf elements with innovative golf entertainment experiences. The course will be complemented by an iconic clubhouse and state-of-the-art driving range and academy designed by Patterson's which sits perfectly in the desert environment. It has both sustainability and world-class golfing features embedded within the design. The clubhouse will offer a comprehensive range of facilities to support the golf course while also serving as a vibrant community social and wellness hub. It will feature leisure amenities such as fitness and conditioning, wellness facilities, social meeting places, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of food and beverage options. The venue is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors annually. A green-roofed structure, open to the public for viewing and events, will connect three main zones: the Golf Clubhouse, serving as the central hub for operations and player interaction; the Social Wellness Hub, offering a wide array of sports and leisure amenities; and the Academy, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to golf instruction and practice. Qiddiya City is one of the world's largest city developments at 360 sq km and located just 40 minutes from Riyadh. With over 20 districts planned, the new city will be well-connected and anchored around entertainment, sports and culture with world-class facilities and events alongside new homes, offices, retail and hospitality. The new golfing attractions add to an impressive list of entertainment, sports and cultural facilities at Qiddiya City such as the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium which will host major sports and cultural events including the 2034 World Cup; the Speed Park Track for motor sports; the Mercedes AMG World of Performance which is an immersive and interactive experience including a public race track and the Performing Arts Center.
Gulf Business
21-07-2025
- Gulf Business
Saudi's Qiddiya City unveils Faldo-designed golf course and joins global Faldo Series
Image: Saudi Press Agency/Qiddiya City golf course rendering As part of the agreement, Qiddiya City will serve as a host venue for Qiddiya City also unveiled plans for a new Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole championship golf course, which is set to open to the public in 2026. A state-of-the-art clubhouse, academy and practice facilities will follow in 2028. Designed to promote accessibility and inclusivity, the course will feature a unique 'three-hole return' layout, enabling flexible play and encouraging broader participation. Read: Qiddiya Investment Company managing director Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood said: 'Qiddiya City's partnership with Sir Nick Faldo in designing a new golf course and becoming global partner of the Faldo Series underscores our commitment to growing the game of golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi golfers.' Sir Nick Faldo added: 'This is a unique opportunity to become involved in one of the most exciting cities being developed today where a new way of city life is fused together with sport, entertainment and culture. Our partnership with Qiddiya City brings together the golf community with a whole nation bubbling with energy to be active and try new sports.' The course The new course will be located against the dramatic backdrop of the 200-metre-high Tuwaiq cliffs, offering floodlit play, advanced learning pathways, and interactive golf entertainment experiences. It has been designed to challenge elite players while remaining accessible to amateurs and beginners. The project will also feature an iconic clubhouse and driving range designed by architecture firm Patterson's. Sustainability is a core aspect of the design, alongside world-class golfing features. The clubhouse will double as a vibrant social and wellness hub, housing amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, fitness and conditioning zones, wellness facilities, social spaces, and a diverse mix of food and beverage outlets. The entire complex is expected to attract more than 200,000 visitors annually. A green-roofed public structure will link three zones: the Golf Clubhouse, the Social Wellness Hub, and the Academy. This interconnected layout supports Qiddiya's goal of blending recreation, health and community. The golf precinct is situated in a dynamic district within Qiddiya City, one of the world's largest city developments spanning 360 sq km and located just 40 minutes from Riyadh. With more than 20 districts planned, Qiddiya City will integrate entertainment, sports, and cultural landmarks with residential, commercial and hospitality offerings. Other major attractions in Qiddiya include the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will host global sporting and cultural events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup; the Speed Park Track for motorsports; Mercedes AMG World of Performance with its public racetrack; and a landmark Performing Arts Center.
Khaleej Times
08-07-2025
- Khaleej Times
A star is born: Lottie Woad's breakthrough victory signals arrival of amateur sensation
When a 21-year-old amateur not only wins a professional golf tournament but does so by a stunning six-shot margin, it's time for the golf world to sit up and take notice. Enter Lottie Woad, England's rising star, who captured the KPMG Women's Irish Open on the Ladies European Tour with an extraordinary display of skill and composure. Lottie's journey to this breakthrough has been swift and impressive. Her amateur career has been studded with remarkable achievements, marking her out as one of the brightest prospects in women's golf. After clinching the Surrey Ladies County Championship in 2019, Woad's rise accelerated dramatically. Now, as a standout player for Florida State University, her list of accolades reads like a checklist of golfing excellence. Stacking Up the Accolades 2023 ACC Freshman of the Year 2023 WGCA Freshman of the Year 2024 FSU Female Athlete of the Year 2024 ACC Golfer of the Year 2024 Mark H. McCormack Medal By June 2024, she had reached the pinnacle of amateur golf, becoming the world's number one-ranked player in the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR). Earlier that year, she also triumphed at the prestigious Augusta National Women's Amateur. Lottie has already proven her mettle on golf's biggest stages, competing in every major she's eligible for and securing a best finish of tied 10th at the 2024 AIG Women's Open. She's also been a vital part of team events like the 2023 Espirito Santo Trophy in Abu Dhabi and the 2025 Patsy Hankins Trophy, representing England and Europe with distinction. Her performance in Abu Dhabi was notable: fourth place in the three-player team event and tied fourth individually, finishing nine under par. Dominance on Irish Soil But it was in Ireland where Woad truly announced herself. Over 72 holes, she racked up 24 birdies against just three bogeys, finishing 21 under par to dominate a field packed with Solheim Cup stars, LPGA veterans, and LET winners. What stood out even more than the score was her calm, confident demeanour under pressure, a quality that sets the great apart from the good. Already a sought-after talent with a dedicated management team behind her, Lottie exemplifies the new wave of amateurs who are ready to compete and win at the highest professional level, sometimes even before officially turning pro. Asked about turning professional after her victory, Woad was measured: 'No, I'm not tempted to turn pro yet. I'm still trying to get my final two points for the LPGA. I'm trying to get those, and then we will see what happens after that.' Those 'two points' refer to the LPGA's Elite Amateur Pathway (LEAP), where 20 points are required for full membership, a goal Lottie is steadily chasing. Respect From the Elite Praise from established pros only underlines her potential. Solheim Cup star Madelene Sagstrom, who played alongside Woad in the final round, said: 'It was Lottie's week; it was wonderful to watch her play. I played a bunch of golf with her. I'm really happy with her and she's going to take European and American golf by storm very soon.' The weeks ahead will test her further. Next up is the fourth major of the year in France, with a packed schedule of important tournaments looming. But whatever happens, Lottie Woad will never forget her first professional victory in Ireland, a milestone that feels like just the beginning of an exciting career. The large crowds, the pressure of victory celebrations, dealing with the media, sponsors, and the sea of young fans eager for autographs alongside top names like Charley Hull and Georgia Hall, Woad handled it all with grace beyond her years. It's a promising sign for the future of ladies' golf. We'll be watching closely as Lottie's journey continues. Good luck, Lottie - the golf world is ready for you.
