Mark O’Meara returns to the scene of his 2004 triumph, hoping to roll back the years when he competes in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, starting at the Emirates Golf Club from December 7 to 13.
Images of Tiger Woods giving him a bear hug on the 18th green after he his last European Tour victory seven years ago are still fresh in the minds of his fans.
With 31 victories world-wide, including 16 on the US PGA Tour under his belt, O'Meara competes in a star-studded field, spearheaded by Woods and World Number One Lee Westwood, in what promises to be an intriguing battle in the sun.
O’Meara, who is a ‘golf in DUBAi’ ambassador, said: “When you look at the list of the past champions who have won the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, it is so impressive. This shows good golfers in the world love to come and play in Dubai.
“What's happening out there in the UAE and certainly in Dubai is just so impressive to see,” said O’Meara, referring to the fast-changing golfing landscape of the country.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “Mark is still a world-class player and we look forward to welcoming him in Dubai. He may have been the oldest player to win the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at 47, but he still likes golf and, I am sure, he will give the present generation of players a run for their money.
"Mark has always been a great friend of Dubai. And we are proud to have him on board as our global ambassador."
O’Meara, one of the most popular figures in international golf, has been playing on the US Champions Tour since 2007. He had many top-10 finishes in his first three seasons, including several runner-up finishes, but no wins.
In 2010, he broke through with a win in the Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf with Nick Price, followed by his first senior major victory in the Constellation Energy Senior Players Championship. Two wins and a string of top-10 finishes propelled him to the eighth on the Money List with over $1.2 million in earnings from 20 starts in 2010.
