Francesco Molinari arrives at the Hero Indian Open searching for a return to winning ways, but with the belief that his best golf is not far away.
The 2018 Open champion, now 44, has not won since 2019 but remains driven, carrying the same mindset that once saw him conquer a world-class field. This week at DLF Golf and Country Club offers another opportunity to reset.
Molinari, making his first start in India since 2009, has prepared meticulously and leans on experience to navigate one of the toughest tests on the DP World Tour.
Defending champion Eugenio Chacarra also returns with intent. The Spaniard broke through here last year and still considers the DLF layout among his favourites, even as he looks to rediscover consistency.
Akshay Bhatia adds star power to the field. The Arnold Palmer Invitational winner arrives in form and will be a strong contender on a course that rewards strategy and patience.
In photo – Shubhankar Sharma, Rayhan Thomas and Yuvraj Sandhu
Among the Indian hopes, Shubhankar Sharma will look to bounce back after a difficult season, drawing confidence from his past DP World Tour wins. Rayhan Thomas returns with greater experience, while Yuvraj Sandhu continues his transition to the global stage after a dominant 2025 season at home.
The field features 138 players from 26 countries, including 30 Indians, with a prize purse of $2.55 million on offer.
With its demanding layout and premium field, the Hero Indian Open once again sets up as a test of resilience as much as skill — and a week where momentum can quickly shift.
Photo – Hero MotoCorp
