Stephen Gallacher aiming for third Dubai title

Shaikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, presents the 2014 winners trophy to Stephen Gallacher. Picture: Golf in Dubai

South African Ernie Els has won the competition on three separate occasions but only Gallacher has successfully defended the crown, winning two successive titles over the past two years.

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The Scot has put himself within touching distance of winning three titles-in-a-row after an incredible year, in which he made a winning Ryder Cup debut at Gleneagles, rose to number 35 in the world and won over £1.2 million in prize money.

Gallacher, who is spending time in the gym to stay fit physically and mentally, is delighted to have the chance to try to win the tournament for the third time. He said:

“I love Dubai, I love the tournament and it will be great to repeat the success, but I not getting ahead of myself. I hope to play well again and see where that leaves me.

“To defend the title in 2014, which was the 25th anniversary of the event, was special with all the former champions in the field. Dubai is one of my favourite stops on the European Tour because there is always a lot of strength at the top of the field,”

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The 40-year-old also said that he was honoured to be a DUBAi ambassador. He added: “It’s a great honour to be part of the ‘golf in DUBAi’ family of ambassadors. They have done a tremendous job in raising the golfing profile of this brilliant city. They’re lovely people and look after us so well.”

Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “Stephen is a world-class player, one whose hard work has paid off in spades as his recent achievements suggest. Like everyone, we are really impressed by his constant quest for high performance.

“A likeable character on the golf course, Stephen is doing great work through his foundation to help junior players maximize their potential through playing golf, at the same time encouraging a healthy lifestyle, while teaching them discipline, honesty and the joys of the game.

“We look forward to welcoming our defending champion back and hope that his visit will be rewarding once again.”

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