Post by : Bianca
Haleem
American golfer Patrick Reed triumphed at the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic held at Emirates Golf Club, finishing the event at 14 under par and winning by four shots. This victory not only marks his fourth title on the DP World Tour but also his inaugural Rolex Series victory.
Starting the final day with a commanding four-shot advantage, Reed played strategically on the front nine, achieving eight pars and a bogey. However, his competitors, particularly Spain’s David Puig, put pressure on him by scoring consecutive birdies on the eighth and ninth holes, narrowing Reed's lead to two shots.
The back nine saw Reed bounce back, securing birdies at holes 10 and 13, while Puig faltered with a bogey at the 13th, allowing Reed to reestablish his four-shot lead. He maintained his composure and finalized the round with five successive pars to clinch the tournament.
Post-match, Reed reflected on the challenging round, emphasizing the importance of staying patient and focusing on his strategy. He expressed gratitude to his caddie for their support throughout the final round.
Andy Sullivan ended the tournament in second place with a score of 10 under, while French golfer Julien Guerrier came in third at nine under par. Nicolai Højgaard, Francesco Molinari, and Jayden Schaper finished just one shot behind. David Puig concluded the round at seven under, having incurred a two-shot penalty on the last hole.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum awarded the Dallah Trophy to Patrick Reed amid a vibrant crowd at Emirates Golf Club, attended by numerous dignitaries and business leaders.
In addition, South African amateur Christiaan Maas was recognized with the Leading Amateur award. The tournament featured various activities, including junior competitions, family entertainment, and initiatives centered around sustainability.
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic remains one of the premier golf events in the Middle East, with organizers aiming for an even grander occasion in 2027.
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