Graeme McDowell, the 2010 US Open champion, has said he is hoping to use the Omega Dubai Desert Classic as a chance to “get in the groove early season” on a golf course that he believes will put him “in a position to compete”.
McDowell, who reached a career high No 4 in the world rankings in 2011, endured a tough season last year before clinching victory at the OHL Classic in Mexico in November.
However, the Northern Irishman is targeting a return to form this season, starting in Dubai, after a year in which golf was put on the backburner.
“It had been a rough year, but for all the right reasons,” McDowell, who became a father for the first time last year, said.
“I enjoyed life off the golf course with my beautiful family. Golf has not been the priority it should be. But I have got back to where I want to be.”
Dates, players and ticket info: Your guide to the 2016 Omega Dubai Desert Classic
World No 64 McDowell will be among fine company at Emirates Golf Club on February 4-7, with the likes of world No 3 Rory McIlroy, world No 6 Henrik Stenson, and world No 18 Louis Oosthuizen all competing for the Dubai Desert Classic title.
Despite the fierce competition, McDowell is feeling confident of his chances on the Majlis course.
“Of the four Middle East events we play, this has got to be the best opportunity for me from a golf course point of view,” he said. “The Majlis is a classic golf course, no doubt about it. Certainly, length helps, but there’s a huge premium on accuracy. You’ve got to drive it in the fairway to give yourself an opportunity to make birdies,
“The scoring is normally fairly low and the greens are just perfect, as well.
“I always love coming back to Dubai and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic is a prestigious event. There are some great names on the trophy and there’s always a fantastic atmosphere from the great crowds at the event. I’m looking forward to the week as it is as important for me to get into the groove early in the season.
“When I go to a tournament, I like to feel that I am in a position to compete — and I believe I can compete to win on this course.”
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “We look forward to welcoming back a player who brings charisma and charm wherever he plays.
“Besides being a world-class player, Graeme is a great human being, one who does a lot of charity work through his G-Mac Foundation to support children’s medical research in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the United States.
“I wish him the very best and hope he returns home with some fond memories of his stay in Dubai.”
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