Stephen Gallacher’s link with Dubai is cemented

IN a fitting reward for becoming the first player in the event’s 25-year history to retain the Dubai Desert Classic title, Stephen Gallacher has become a global ambassador for the emirate.

Picture: Ian Rutherford

A three-year deal to add the Golf in Dubai logo to his clothing sees the 39-year-old join the likes of former Open champion Mark O’Meara, Thomas Bjorn, Jeev Milkha Singh and Laura Davies on the roster.

“I love Dubai, I love the tournament and it will be a great honour and privilege to be a part of the golf in Dubai team that has done a tremendous job in raising the profile of this brilliant city on the global stage,” said Gallacher, who beat a field that included both Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy to earn his place in the Desert Classic record books in February.

“What’s happening out here in the UAE and certainly in Dubai is just so impressive to see. From my experience I can tell, Dubai is one of our favourite stops on the European Tour.”

Gallacher will start his new role at next week’s Masters and and Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai, said: “He is fast becoming an influential figure in the world of golf and his constant quest for high performance is in line with Dubai’s vision of making the city the hub for all things golf. We are honoured to have him on board.”