Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Sandhu have been invited to participate in the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, scheduled from January 22 to 26.
Their participation ensures a robust Indian
presence at this Rolex Series event held at the Emirates Golf Club. While Sharma is set for his eighth consecutive appearance, Sandhu will debut, although he has previously played on the course.
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic, now in its 37th year, is a key fixture on the DP World Tour. This prestigious tournament will once again take place at the renowned Majlis Course. It is expected to attract a world-class lineup, featuring several Major champions, Ryder Cup participants, and emerging international players.
Star-Studded Field
Leading the field is Rory McIlroy, who will defend his Masters' Green Jacket in April. The tournament will also feature former Masters winner Dustin Johnson, who has received an invitation. Other notable participants include Patrick Reed, another former Masters champion, and Tommy Fleetwood, winner of the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup, who celebrates his 35th birthday during the event.
Additional prominent players include former Open winner Shane Lowry, two-time Ryder Cup-winning captain Luke Donald, Viktor Hovland, and rising star Jayden Schaper. These players contribute to a star-studded lineup that promises exciting competition.
Indian Golfers' Aspirations
Sharma, a two-time winner on the DP World Tour, returns to Dubai aiming for a strong start in 2026. Despite losing his DP World Tour card earlier, he regained it through an impressive performance in the Q-School. "It was awesome to receive an invite and I love this event, having played it so many times. Hopefully I can make it count with a good showing," expressed Sharma.
Sandhu's invitation marks a significant step in his professional journey. The Chandigarh-based golfer has gained recognition for his consistent performances on the domestic Indian PGTI Tour. His seven victories in 2025 earned him the DP World Tour card as the PGTI Order of Merit winner. "I am looking forward to the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, which is such an iconic event," Sandhu stated.
Growing Indian Engagement
The invitations extended to Sharma and Sandhu underscore the increasing connection between the tournament and India. This engagement is further supported by Hero MotoCorp's strong backing. The presence of these Indian golfers highlights their growing influence in international golf events.
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic continues to be a marquee event on the DP World Tour calendar. With its rich history and tradition of attracting top-tier talent, it remains a significant platform for showcasing golfing excellence on a global stage.
With inputs from PTI
