The $9 million Hero Dubai Desert Classic, a Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour, marks a major career milestone for Yuvraj Singh Sandhu, who makes his DP World Tour debut this week at Emirates Golf Club.
The Chandigarh golfer earned his card after a record-breaking 2025 season on the PGTI, winning seven times and setting a new season earnings mark of ₹1.61 crore. Dubai represents his first start outside India at Tour level — and a direct test against one of the strongest fields of the year.
Sandhu is joined by Shubhankar Sharma, who returns to full DP World Tour status after finishing T-2 at Qualifying School to regain his playing rights. For Sharma, this week begins a reset season after a difficult 2025 campaign.
Both Indians faced a challenging opening round on the Majlis Course. Sharma signed for a 2-over 74, while Sandhu carded a 3-over 75, slipping late after holding even par through 15 holes before three closing bogeys.
The field is headlined by World No. 2 Rory McIlroy, who is chasing a fifth Dubai Desert Classic title, alongside defending champion Tyrrell Hatton. Ryder Cup stars Shane Lowry, Tommy Fleetwood and Viktor Hovland — all of whom competed in India three months ago — are also in action.
Past champions in the field include McIlroy, Hatton, Hovland, Danny Willett and Rafa Cabrera Bello, with Eugenio Chacarra, the defending Hero Indian Open champion, adding further depth.
For Sandhu, it’s a first step. For Sharma, a return. For both, Dubai sets the early tone for 2026.
Photo – Asian Tour
