Rory McIlroy excited to tee off in India for the first time

World No. 2 Rory McIlroy is set to make his long-awaited India debut at the $4 million DP World India Championship, hosted this week at the historic Delhi Golf Club. The reigning Masters champion headlines a star-studded field featuring Ryder Cup teammates Tommy Fleetwood, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, and two-time Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, alongside Brian Harman and Ben Griffin.

“I’m excited to play a golf tournament in a place I’ve never played before,” McIlroy said. “Eighteen years into a professional career, it’s still special to do something for the first time.”

A new stop on McIlroy’s global journey

McIlroy, who completed the career Grand Slam earlier this year, has long championed the globalization of golf. Inspired by a conversation with tennis legend Roger Federer, the Northern Irishman said he relishes playing in new countries.

“I’ve always enjoyed traveling and playing in front of new fans. India has such a deep sporting culture, and I can’t wait to experience that energy this week.”

The Delhi Golf Club’s tight fairways and storied layout have hosted numerous Asian Tour and DP World Tour events. McIlroy, grouped with Hovland and Griffin for the opening rounds, will look to extend his lead on the Race to Dubai Rankings as he pursues a record-extending seventh Harry Vardon Trophy.

Star-studded line-up returns to DGC

Fleetwood returns to India after nine years, fresh off his first PGA TOUR win and a pivotal Ryder Cup performance. Lowry, who last played in India in 2010, is back as an Open Champion and Ryder Cup veteran. The international contingent joins a strong Indian field led by Anirban Lahiri, Shubhankar Sharma, Shiv Kapur, and Chiragh Kumar, all familiar with the DGC layout.

A historic week for Indian Golf

With 26 Indian players and a record purse for any professional event in the country, the DP World India Championship marks a landmark moment for golf’s growth in Asia.

“India has a rich golf history, and this is a great opportunity to take the game further,” McIlroy said. “I’m just excited to get going and play in front of Indian fans.”

Photo – DPWT