From Dubai to Panama: A Global Snapshot of Golf’s Varied Landscape

In recent weeks, discussions about globalizing golf have involved Rory McIlroy and departing DP World Tour CEO Keith Pelley. McIlroy envisions expanding into markets like Australia, South Africa, and Japan. Pelley, emphasizing the global nature of the sport, believes American golfers should look beyond their borders for growth.

The delay in finalizing the PGA Tour’s agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the DP World Tour is linked to the Saudis’ insistence on incorporating global team golf. While this unfolds, McIlroy and other PGA Tour stars are participating in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.

In professional golf this week, focus shifts to The American Express on the PGA Tour and the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions on the LPGA Tour. Notably, defending champion Jon Rahm is absent from The American Express after joining the LIV Golf League.

The LPGA Tournament of Champions includes past winners from the last two seasons. Meanwhile, celebrities join a 72-hole tournament at Lake Nona with modified Stableford scoring. In Dubai, a group of PGA Tour stars competes in the Dubai Desert Classic.

The Latin American Amateur Championship in Panama offers amateurs a chance to earn invitations to major tournaments. The winner gains entry to the Masters, the U.S. Open, and The Open, provided they remain amateurs. Notable participants include golfers from Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, and past champion Aaron Jarvis from UNLV.

Overall, the golfing landscape this week features a mix of global discussions, professional tournaments, celebrity showcases, and amateur pursuits.