Latest news with #HeroDubaiDesertClassic
Newsweek
23-06-2025
- Sport
- Newsweek
Rory McIlroy's Gaffe amid Tommy Fleetwood's Epic Collapse
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Golf can be brutal, and Tommy Fleetwood felt every bit of it on Sunday at the Travelers Championship. The 34-year-old Englishman, chasing his first PGA Tour win, stood in the 18th fairway with a one-shot lead. But he left his approach woefully short and three-putted for bogey, opening the door for Keegan Bradley. Bradley hit a clutch approach to inside six feet and sank the walk-off, winning birdie putt. Fleetwood, who had led for most of the final round, was left stunned. "I'm upset now. I'm gutted. I'm angry," he said afterward. "When it calms down, I'll look at the things I did well... but there are things I have to do better." While many praised Fleetwood's grace in facing the media after such a crushing loss, Rory McIlroy's attempt to show support took an awkward turn. DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 17: Tommy Fleetwood of England and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland shake hands on the 18th green on day two of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf... DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 17: Tommy Fleetwood of England and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland shake hands on the 18th green on day two of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club on January 17, 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by) More Getty Images Speaking to reporters shortly after the final round, McIlroy said, "Tommy's been a great player for a long time." But what followed made it sound like McIlroy believed Fleetwood had actually won. "He's more than due—or he was more than due. He's got so much talent and ability, and obviously it's great to see him get over the line." The comment, likely made before Fleetwood's final-hole bogey, quickly circulated online as a classic case of speaking too soon. It appears Rory McIlroy thought Tommy Fleetwood had won the Travelers Championship before his 72nd hole collapse, "He's more than due or he was more than due. He's got so much talent and ability and obviously its great to see him get over the line." — Chris McKee (@mrmckee) June 23, 2025 If Fleetwood sees the clip, he'll no doubt appreciate the praise from one of golf's biggest names. But the sting of falling short, again, at a $20 million signature event will linger. McIlroy and Fleetwood share a close bond. They've been Ryder Cup teammates multiple times, including Europe's dominant win in Rome in 2023. Their chemistry was on full display during foursomes and fourballs, and they've often been seen practicing together at majors. Just this week, the two unintentionally wore matching Nike outfits during Sunday's final round at TPC River Highlands that drew laughs from fans. Despite the heartbreak, Fleetwood's performance was full of brilliance. He made three eagles and 14 birdies across four rounds, including a Saturday 63 that vaulted him into the lead. And while the win slipped away, his post-round composure didn't. "Right now I'd love to go sulk somewhere," he admitted. "But there's no point making it a negative. Take the positives and move on." That attitude stood in contrast to McIlroy's own recent media absences. After his U.S. Open collapse at Pinehurst, McIlroy skipped interviews entirely. More Golf: LPGA Winner in Spotlight After Absurd Tick Bites From Erin Hills
Time Out Dubai
11-06-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai tourism numbers indicate 2025 could be record year
It's no secret that Dubai is one of the best cities in the world with so many amazing things to do, tasty places to eat and incredible attractions to see. And the latest Dubai tourism numbers suggest that 2025 is set to be another record-breaking year when it comes to people visiting the emirate. Between January and April this year 7.15 million people visited the emirate, according to statistics released by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism ahead of the summer season. For context, this number is a seven percent increase on the same period in 2024. Overall, last year saw a nine percent increase in visitors from 2023. Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (Credit: DET) While the latest overall statistics apply to the first four months of the year, the latest stats for the Eid Al Adha period show that Dubai remains a popular destination for travellers – with 629,559 people recorded at entry and exit points during the public holiday. Dubai's biggest airline Emirates will target specific regions with different promotions with free hotel stays, discounts on city attractions and more offered throughout the year. Regular live events, such as concerts, target this specific audience with a significant portion of ticket buyers for the city's many EDM shows hailing from Europe. It should also be no surprise that Dubai remains a popular tourist destination with its biggest airport, Dubai International Airport, being named the world's busiest international airport once again. And in the first period of the year, Dubai also hosted cultural festivals for Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr. While major sporting events such as the ICC Champions Trophy T20 cricket tournament, Hero Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament, Dubai World Cup horse race and the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships all brought significant numbers of visitors to the emirate. The latest Dubai tourism figures came during a City Briefing at Coca-Cola Arena on Tuesday June 10. The City Briefing highlighted the initiatives such as Dubai's autism friendly certification and the MyDubai Communities programmes, as reasons the emirate is evolving as a destination. And it is hoped that the return of Dubai Summer Surprises will bring more visitors to the city throughout the season. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, said that the aim remains to make Dubai the world's best city to visit. He said: 'Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners. 'From hospitality and aviation to retail and gastronomy, every sector has played a critical role in solidifying Dubai's position as a global tourism leader. 'It is by coming together as a community that we have been able to navigate challenges, create compelling narratives about the city, and drive global trends. Looking for things to do in Dubai? All the sports events in Dubai in 2025 to sign up for Make 2025 the year of your PBs 50 brilliant outdoor activities to try at least once in Dubai Let's take this outside The incredible Dubai hotels offering more than just a room Did someone say freebies?
Arabian Business
14-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
UK property firm joins Hero Dubai Desert Classic partnership roster
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has secured a multi-year partnership with UK property investment firm Flambard Williams, tournament organisers announced today. The agreement sees Flambard Williams become an Official Patron of the tournament, which celebrated its 35 th edition earlier this year when Tyrrell Hatton claimed victory against competitors including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Tommy Fleetwood. Established in 1989, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic holds status as the oldest golf competition in the region and has earned the nickname 'Major of the Middle East'. Flambard Williams named official patron of Hero Dubai Desert Classic in multi-year deal The tournament forms part of the Rolex Series on the DP World Tour, securing its position on the global golfing calendar. Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said: 'We're delighted to announce the support of Flambard Williams on a multi-year deal, and look forward to working with them as we continue to produce a truly fan and player-favourite event. 'Without partnerships like this we wouldn't be able to build such an amazing event that since 1989 has sparked some truly unforgettable moments on the DP World Tour. We can't wait to see what the 2026 event has in store and are excited to create more memorable experiences alongside our valued partners.' The deal represents the first major global sponsorship for Flambard Williams, a multi-award winning firm that provides property investment solutions and portfolio management advice to investors worldwide. The partnership aims to support their brand expansion, customer engagement and growth in a key market. 'We are ecstatic to sign a fantastic long-term deal to partner with this prestigious event. Add this to our sponsorship of who I believe is a future multiple Major winner, Wilco Nienaber, we will not only increase our global brand, but also host a number of our select clients to enjoy a phenomenal 4 days of golf,' Christopher Whetstone, Managing Director, Flambard Williams added. The tournament, which holds GEO-certification®, has built a reputation for entertainment both on and off the course, contributing to its prominence on the DP World Tour.
Mid East Info
13-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Hero Dubai Desert Classic announces new multi-year Official Patron partnership - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, UAE: The Hero Dubai Desert Classic (HDDC) continues to go from strength to strength, today announcing UK-based property investment company Flambard Williams as the newest member of its premium partnership family. Flambard Willams will become an Official Patron of the Classic on a multi-year deal, highlighting the tournament's continued attraction to international commercial partners. Multi-award winning Flambard Williams is a specialist property investment company providing expert solutions beyond traditional asset classes. They offer strategic advisory services and portfolio management advice to property investors around the world. This partnership marks the first major global sponsorship for their business and importantly supports their brand in reaching new audiences, engaging customers and growing presence in a priority market. Established in 1989, the HDDC is the oldest golf competition in the region, affectionately known as the Major of the Middle East. This year, in its 36th iteration, Tyrrell Hatton edged out the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Tommy Fleetwood to lift the Dallah Trophy. Premium on and off course entertainment and GEO-certification® have all contributed to its significance on the DP World Tour, and as part of the prestigious Rolex Series, it holds a premier status on the global golfing calendar. Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said: 'We're delighted to announce the support of Flambard Williams on a multi-year deal, and look forward to working with them as we continue to produce a truly fan and player-favourite event. 'Without partnerships like this we wouldn't be able to build such an amazing event that since 1989 has sparked some truly unforgettable moments on the DP World Tour. We can't wait to see what the 2026 event has in store and are excited to create more memorable experiences alongside our valued partners.' Christopher Whetstone, Managing Director, Flambard Williams, said that as current sponsors of South African golfer Wilco Nienaber, they were excited to partner with the iconic tournament: 'We are ecstatic to sign a fantastic long-term deal to partner with this prestigious event. Add this to our sponsorship of who I believe is a future multiple Major winner, Wilco Nienaber, we will not only increase our global brand, but also host a number of our select clients to enjoy a phenomenal 4 days of golf.' About Hero Dubai Desert Classic: The Dubai Desert Classic was founded in 1989 as the first DP World Tour event to take place in the Gulf, and the first and only GEO-certified golf event in the Middle East, highlighting the event's continued dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable golf events. Regarded as one of the most significant events on the DP World Tour, and part of the prestigious Rolex Series, it has been credited with paving the way for golf's presence in the Middle East, as well as creating some of the most iconic moments in golfing history. Promoted and organised by Falcon and Associates, the tournament played on the Majlis course at Emirates Golf Club, is fondly referred to as the 'Major of the Middle East', due to its legacy and world-class players drawn to the tournament every year. The tournament is supported by title sponsor, Hero MotoCorp, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), a founding partner of the Dubai Desert Classic. The 37th edition of the event will take place in January 2026 in Dubai. About Flambard Williams: Flambard Williams is UK's No1 Property Investment Specialist. Established in 2012 and headquartered in Canary Wharf, London, the team has a global reach and each year transacts on £bn's worth of property. Generating returns of over 10% annually along with major awards to their name, including Best Agent, Best Agency, and a 5-star award for their management services from the International Property Awards, it is clear to see why clients all over the globe have put their trust in Flambard Williams. Handling all sides of the property transaction, such as the purchase, the management, the mortgage, company formations, and, of course, the sourcing of the below-market-value properties, is why they are the leader in their industry. Flambard Williams is a big advocate of nurturing young sports talent, with Wilco Nienaber being their marquee signing. About Hero MotoCorp Ltd. Hero MotoCorp, headquartered in New Delhi, India, is the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters for 24 consecutive years, with a global footprint spanning 48 countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and a customer base of over 120 million. VIDA, powered by Hero, is the company's dedicated electric mobility arm, driving innovation and sustainability. Hero MotoCorp has collaborations with Harley-Davidson and Zero Motorcycles and strategic investments in Ather Energy and Euler Motors. The company operates eight manufacturing facilities – six in India and one each in Colombia and Bangladesh – along with two Research and Development centres: Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT) in India and Tech Centre Germany (TCG) near Munich. Hero MotoCorp is the only Indian two-wheeler manufacturer listed on the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI). Beyond mobility, Hero MotoCorp is a leading global corporate promoter of multiple sports including golf, football, field hockey, and cricket. Hero MotoSports Team Rally is India's flag bearer in global rally racing, while legendary golfer Tiger Woods is the company's Global Corporate Partner. About the DP World Tour: The DP World Tour is the main men's professional golf tour of the European Tour group. As golf's global tour, we showcase global talent in global destinations and use our platform to build, entertain and connect our global community. GLOBAL TALENT: We provide pathways and a platform for the leading international talent, bringing together golfing icons, national heroes and emerging stars from around the world. GLOBAL DESTINATIONS: We stage tournaments in iconic cities and locations around the world and each week we celebrate and showcase the rich diversity of the courses, cities and cultures we visit. GLOBAL COMMUNITY: We build, entertain and connect communities through our commitment to innovation, creative content and having a positive social and environmental impact. Our 2025 Global Schedule features 42 tournaments in 26 different countries and comprises three distinct phases: five 'Global Swings', the 'Back 9' and the 'DP World Tour Play-Offs'. It features five Rolex Series events – the premium category of events on the DP World Tour – and four Major Championships, all of which count towards the Race to Dubai Rankings, the Tour's season-long competition which concludes at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. DP World, the leading provider of global smart end-to-end supply chain and logistics solutions, has been the title partner of the DP World Tour since the start of the 2022 season, the Tour's 50th season following its formation in 1972. We also enjoy the support of many of the world's leading business brands with DP World, Rolex, BMW, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Emirates and Fortinet as Official Partners. About the Rolex Series: The Rolex Series is the premium category of events on the DP World Tour, comprising five tournaments in 2025, staged in a variety of world-class golfing locations around the globe, each with a minimum prize fund of US$9 million. Showcasing innovation, enriched media, content and broadcast coverage, and a superior event experience for both fans and for the world's top players, the list of Rolex Series Champions includes some of golf's most distinguished names. The Rolex Series was launched in 2017, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of Rolex's enduring partnership with the European Tour group. In 2025, the Rolex Series comprises; the Hero Dubai Desert Classic (January 16-19), the Genesis Scottish Open (July 10-13) the BMW PGA Championship (September 11-14), the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship (November 6-9) and the DP World Tour Championship (November 13-16). The latter two events comprise the DP World Tour Play-Offs and feature the leading 70 and 50 players from the Race to Dubai respectively.
Khaleej Times
11-03-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
A Legacy in Full Swing: 37 years of Emirates Golf Club's impact on golf in the Middle East
Emirates Golf Club marked its 37th anniversary on March 8, a milestone that highlights its lasting impact on Dubai's sporting landscape. Since its opening in 1988, the club has been at the forefront of the region's golf scene, evolving into one of the most recognized venues in the Middle East and beyond. The vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Emirates Golf Club was a bold step in positioning Dubai as a global sporting destination. Built on 175 acres of desert, it became the first all-grass championship course in the Middle East, setting the stage for the city's rise as a hub for world-class golf. At the heart of its legacy is the Majlis Course, often described as 'the desert miracle.' Designed by American architect Karl Litten, it blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering a championship-level challenge with the city's skyline as a dramatic backdrop. Since 1989, it has hosted the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, the first European Tour event in the Arabian Peninsula. The tournament has attracted legends of the game, from Seve Ballesteros and Ernie Els to Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. The event has delivered no shortage of memorable moments—Els' six-shot triumph in 1994, Woods' four-shot comeback in 2008, and McIlroy's breakthrough win at just 19 years old in 2009. The course has seen record-breaking rounds, including Els' stunning 61 (-11) in 1994 and Thomas Björn's tournament-record 266 (-22) in 2001. Alongside the Majlis, the Faldo Course, redesigned by six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo, offers a distinctive challenge with its floodlit fairways, allowing golfers to play under the night sky. But Emirates Golf Club is more than just a championship venue. It has grown into a social and sporting hub, welcoming both professionals and amateurs. Its state-of-the-art practice facilities, vibrant clubhouse, and diverse dining options have cemented its place in Dubai's sporting culture. From Vision to Reality The club's origins date back to the 1980s when Sheikh Mohammed championed the idea of a world-class golf course in Dubai. With the backing of his elder brother, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the transformation from desert to lush fairways became a reality. The first tee shot, struck by Pakistan's President Zia-ul-Haq, symbolized a new era for the sport in the UAE. Three decades on, Emirates Golf Club continues to shape the game's future. With its rich history, elite-level competition, and commitment to nurturing new talent, it remains a defining landmark of Dubai's sporting success.
