Fleetwood set to defend Dubai Invitational title

Ryder Cup hero Tommy Fleetwood will return to Dubai Creek Resort from Jan. 15–18 to defend his Dubai Invitational title. The reigning FedExCup Champion and seven-time DP World Tour winner produced a dramatic birdie-birdie finish at the inaugural edition in 2024 to edge out Ryder Cup team-mate Rory McIlroy on the final day in his adopted home of Dubai.

Two years on, Fleetwood returns as one of the game’s standout stars. In 2025, he became only the second Englishman in history to capture the PGA Tour’s prestigious FedExCup title with his win at the TOUR Championship, adding to his growing list of accolades which now includes three Ryder Cup triumphs.

The 34-year-old played a pivotal role in Europe’s historic away victory at Bethpage, finishing the week as the leading points scorer across both teams. His Ryder Cup record now stands at an impressive 7–3–2, giving him the highest winning percentage of any European player with at least ten matches played.

The World Number Five is aiming to carry his strong form into the new season and is relishing a return to a venue that holds special memories.

“I’m delighted to be defending my Dubai Invitational title in front of family and friends here in Dubai,” said Fleetwood.

“Winning the first edition was a really special moment for me, and Abdulla did a fantastic job bringing the event to life. I can’t wait to start the new year back at Dubai Creek Resort.”

Tournament host Abdulla Al Naboodah added: “We are thrilled to welcome Tommy back to Dubai Creek Resort as our defending champion.

“His victory in the inaugural Dubai Invitational was an unforgettable moment and set the standard for what this tournament is all about.

“Having one of the world’s top players return to defend his title is a huge honour, and I am excited to see the tournament continue to grow and inspire golf fans here in Dubai and around the world.” The Dubai Invitational is the opening event of the Race to Dubai’s International Swing.

Played alongside a three-day Pro-Am team format before a professionals-only Sunday, the bi-annual event features 60 DP World Tour professionals and 60 amateurs.

Meanwhile, defending champion and European Ryder Cup star Tyrrell Hatton will return to Emirates Golf Club for the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, taking place from Jan. 22-25.

Hatton will tee it up in the event for the 11th time in his career and joins already announced reigning Masters Champion and career grand slam winner McIlroy in the field for the first Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai.

Hatton secured the half point that sealed the win for Europe in the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, as he and McIlroy helped their side to defeat the United States 15-13 and record a first away win since 2012.

Hatton’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic win in January preceded a tied fourth finish at the US Open and top 20 finishes at both The Masters and The 153rd Open Championship, helping him to qualify for a fourth Ryder Cup appearance.