Gangjee’s magic putt lights up opening day at DP World India Championship

Veteran Indian golfer Rahil Gangjee produced one of the moments of the day at the DP World India Championship, holing a stunning 55-foot eagle putt on the final green to finish with a 5-under 67. His late flourish ensured that India had strong representation near the top of the leaderboard after the opening round at Delhi Golf Club, where 2019 Open Champion Shane Lowry grabbed the early lead with a 64.

Indians shine in star-studded field

Gangjee, who has battled inconsistency over the past season, was elated to rediscover his rhythm.

“It’s been a while since I’ve played this well,” he said. “I’ve tried to relax more and have fun instead of being too serious. I’ve made a few tweaks to my putting stroke, and it seems to be paying off.”

His sensational finish placed him tied-fourth, joining an elite group that included marquee names like Tommy Fleetwood, Brian Harman, Ben Griffin, and Luke Donald — all of whom shot 68s to sit in Tied-seventh.

Among other Indians, Dhruv Sheoran impressed with a 4-under 68, highlighted by an eagle and four birdies, to share seventh place.

“It’s surreal playing alongside players like Rory and Tommy,” Sheoran said. “I couldn’t sleep last night thinking about it — it’s a dream come true.”

Yuvraj Sandhu, the PGTI Order of Merit leader, carded a 3-under 69 to be T-17, level with Rory McIlroy, while Anirban Lahiri and Abhinav Lohan shot matching 70s for T-28.

Lowry leads with a back-nine burst

Lowry, playing alongside Fleetwood and Donald, caught fire on the back nine, rolling in five consecutive birdies from holes 11 to 15 before closing with another at the 18th.

Japan’s Keita Nakajima, winner of the 2024 Hero Indian Open, continued his fine form with a 65 to sit one behind, followed by South Africa’s Casey Jarvis (66).

The Indian Charge Continues

With Gangjee and Sheoran in the top 10, Indian golf fans have reason to cheer at the $4 million event, the richest professional tournament in the country’s history.

Gangjee summed it up best:

“I’ve played here a thousand times, but to do it on this stage feels special. That last putt — I’ll remember it for a long time.”

Photo – DPWT