Tyrrell Hatton admitted his return to Emirates Golf Club as defending champion at the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic is "surreal".
The 34-year-old fought to a one-shot success over New Zealand's Daniel Hillier to lift his eighth DP World Tour title of his career during last year's event.
The World Number 21 admitted the tournament in the United Arab Emirates is a priority on his schedule ahead of his first start of the campaign.
"It's always great to be here playing this event," Hatton said.
"This is my 13th year on Tour, and this was always one of the events I looked forward to playing or hoped that I would play in one day.
"I remember as a kid, I'd wake up early before going to school and I'd enjoy watching this event on TV.
"So to play in this event and to come back here as defending champion is somewhat surreal, but very special and I always enjoy starting my season here."
He added: "This is a massive event for me. This is a tournament that I always look forward to playing in.
"Off the top of my head, I don't think I've missed this event since I got my Tour card. I love playing here. I'd love to give myself a good chance to defend the title this week.
"I've just been lucky that I've played well in the big events. I'm proud of my record to win five Rolex Series, and three wins at the Dunhill, as well, is really special.
"The events I've been lucky enough to win, they are all pretty prestigious with the Tour, so something I'm proud of. "
Victory at Emirates Golf Club will see Hatton overhaul Ryder Cup team-mate Jon Rahm as the most prolific Rolex Series winner since its inception in 2017.
Both players are locked on five triumphs, but Hatton admitted he would not be sending any jibes to the Spaniard if he successfully defended his crown in Dubai.
"It's a pretty easy reply for him," the Englishman joked.
"He'll still send me two Major trophies that I haven't got near yet. So I think he still wins."
