The Hero Dubai Desert Classic returns to the Emirates Golf Club with a star-studded field and a strong German-speaking presence. Seven players from the region, including Nicolai von Dellingshausen, Marcel Siem, Marcel Schneider, Joel Girrbach, Freddy Schott, Bernd Wiesberger, and Jeremy Paul, will compete for the $9 million prize purse starting Thursday.
This Rolex Series event is one of the highlights on the DP World Tour calendar. Among the international favorites is Rory McIlroy, a four-time winner of this tournament, who once again aims to add to his impressive record in Dubai. Other notable contenders include Tommy Fleetwood, Patrick Reed, and Francesco Molinari, all bringing experience and skill to the challenging Emirates layout.
German-Speaking Players to Watch
The presence of seven German-speaking players adds an interesting dynamic to the tournament. Marcel Siem and Nicolai von Dellingshausen bring solid experience, while younger players like Joel Girrbach and Freddy Schott look to make their mark on the DP World Tour stage. Bernd Wiesberger, a consistent performer on the tour, will also be a key figure to follow as he tries to secure valuable points and prize money.
Strong International Competition
Rory McIlroy’s participation guarantees high-level competition. The Northern Irishman’s familiarity with the course and his multiple victories make him a clear favorite. Tommy Fleetwood, part of the DP World Tour and also a member of the Los Angeles Golf Club team in the Tomorrow Golf League, brings a steady game and strong recent form. Patrick Reed, known for his competitive spirit, and Francesco Molinari add further depth to the field.
Broadcast and Coverage
The tournament will be broadcast live on MagentaTV, with coverage starting at 8:30 am on Thursday and Friday. Weekend coverage begins earlier at 8:00 am, allowing golf fans to follow the action from the first tee to the final putt.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic promises exciting golf and intense competition. The combination of the Rolex Series status and the quality of the field ensures that this event will be a key highlight early in the 2026 season.