John Daly, the 1991 US PGA Champion and 1995 British Open winner, is hoping his first appearance in the Dubai Desert Classic will kick start his 2012 season.
Daly, who will be playing on a sponsor's exemption, will join three the world's four top-ranked players – Lee Westwood, Rory McIlroy and Martin Kaymer – and Fred Couple, the victorious US Presidents Cup captain in the field for the US$2.5 million (Dh9,182m) European Tour event at the Emirates Golf Club which starts on Ferbuary 9.
"I have never been to Dubai, but have heard a lot of good things about the tournament and know pretty well that it attracts a very strong field each," said the 45-year-old, who boasts 19 wins worldwide, including five on the PGA Tour.
"I feel like my game is solid and it will be fun to play in the event which has an impressive list of winners. I am grateful to golf in DUBAi for the invitation and feel excited to visiting this magnificent city," Daly said.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, the vice chairman and chief executive of golf in DUBAi, said: "We look forward to welcoming John whose innovating shot-making skills has made the game of golf a whole lot more interesting. I wish him a pleasant stay in Dubai."
John Daly to make debut in Dubai Desert Classic
The 1991 US PGA Champion, playing on a sponsor’s exemption, feels that his game is solid and he is excited to visit the city.
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