Worldwide Golf March 2024

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VOICE OF THE TOUR

Dubai’s skyline is undoubtedly one of the most recognisable and iconic of all the cities in the world. It has featured in big screen blockbusters such as Mission: Impossible and Star Trek, and of course it is ubiquitous in the DP World Tour’s worldwide broadcast, particularly during the Hero Dubai Desert Classic when it provides a spectacular backdrop to the action at Emirates Golf Club.

Richard Bunn

Managing Director, European Tour Productions

to cut through what is a very cluttered and competitive digital media landscape.

As a global sport, we are in the entertainment industry and we are constantly looking at what kind of content resonates with fans and audiences across a variety of platforms. This approach enables us to lean into specific trends when there is an opportunity to do so, whilst also keeping our core content themes at the heart of what we do.

Earlier this month, the DP World Tour’s content team teamed up with content creator and YouTube sensation Brandon B for a unique collaboration that showcased the famous vista in an entirely different way.

Our creative concept, devised by the Tour’s Head of Original and Branded Content George Cryer and Creative Content Director Pat Burch-Lovell, featured Ryder Cup star Tommy Fleetwood making a holein-one from a cargo plane over the skies of Dubai. It was filmed from the perspective of a sky diver, who parachuted from 30,000ft to follow Tommy’s shot into the hole at Dubai Creek Resort.

58,000,000 VIEWS

After just one week, the video had been viewed more than 58 million times across our platforms, surpassing the 57,900,000 views for our previous best performing piece of content, the Guiness World Record for the ‘Farthest Golf Shot Caught in a Moving Car’ featuring Tour winner Marcus Armitage in 2021.

It also set a new record for us on Instagram, with more than 1,375,000 likes on that platform alone, nearly four times the amount of our previous best performing single post.

During the first 24 hours, the video was trending at more than one million views per hour, and has since continued to capture the imagination of a diverse audience from core golf fans through to Brandon B’s own dedicated following.

The sky dive video was actually the second piece of content we created with Brandon and Tommy. The first, published during the week of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, featured Tommy hitting a shot into a golf simulator, which he then tore a hole into to reveal his shot landing on a real green at Emirates Golf Club. That video was also viewed more than 17million times on our platforms, and together the two pieces are reflective of our evolvingcontent strategy which aims

Collaborating with Brandon is a perfect example of that. Brandon has more than 11 million followers on YouTube and has earned a reputation as one of the most innovative content creators and CGI experts around.

His unique style of content is different to some of the awardwinning content our team has produced in the past, such as Golf Psycho, Angry Golfers and the One Yard Fairway, all of which were also filmed in the UAE. Yet it retains the essence of what we always set out to achieve in our content, namely to showcase the skill and personality of our players and the global destinations our Tour visits.

The sky dive video unquestionably delivers on all fronts, and Tommy, who has starred in several of our viral videos over the years, once again played a huge part in that due to his infectious and relatable charisma.

Interviewed on American TV shortly after the sky dive video had gained traction online, Dubai resident Tommy quipped: “Haters gonna say it’s fake.”

Now, I’ll let you into a little secret. It was. But I would strongly recommend watching ourfollow up video which shows exactly how Brandon and the team used innovative green screen and CGI technology to pull it off.

Of course, Tommy’s real life repertoire of shots is pretty impressive as well, as he showed by winning the Dubai Invitational, holding off Rory McIlroy down the stretch at Dubai Creek at the start of January.

Both players were, of course, also stars of the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy which is documented in Season Two of Full Swing.

That drops on Netflix at the start of March and like our own digital content, it will undoubtedly help golf, the DP World Tour and our players to appeal to new and diverse audiences. 

14 READERS LETTERS

FInd out what our readers have to say and submit your thoughts for an opportunity to win a dozen Titleist balls.

15 CROSSWORD CHALLENGE

Test your golfing intellect with our puzzle of the month.

16 STAT PACK

We recap the highlights of the WM Phoenix Open, Bahrain Championship as well as the Qatar Masters.

20 GOLF NEWS

A lot has changed already this year in the world of golf, including the birth of Sun Day Red from Tiger Woods.

Starter Features

22 VIGGO SORENSEN

Find out how the

26 HARRY KANE

We caught up with the England striker following his recent partnership with Reflo.

32 RYAN FOX

The BMW PGA Championship winner already can’t wait for his Augusta return.

36 VIKTOR KOFOD-OLSEN

The Junior Dubai Desert Classic tells us what’s next for him.

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DRIVER OFF THE DECK

Pete Cowen, Master PGA Professional, shows you how to perfect one of the hardest shots in the game.

47 WEDGE TIPS

58

TITLEIST TOUR SOFT

Is the budget friendly version of the ProV1 and AVX up to the task?.

59 SHOT SCOPE

Their latest range finder has all the high tech goodies wrapped in a hardshell for golfers that break more than par.

64

The Danish DP World Tour winner answers a few of our silly questions.

Head Instructor, Pete Academy, Nick Huby explains how to improve wedge control.

50 NELLY KORDA’S SWING

One of the best swings in the game, as explained by PGA pro Jonathan Craddock.

54

TOP POINTS AT TOPGOLF

Show your pals how it’s done with this simple driving tip from pro Siddhi Kapoor.

If you’re planning a golfing escape this year, the Netherlands is a destination worthy of consideration.

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GREEN JACKETS AND GREEN BACKS ...

It’s getting close to Masters time again and it’ll be interesting to see how the big names ramp up their form leading into the first major of the year. I’ve been working hard with Joaquin Niemann and he’s really impressed me, not just with his victories but the graft he puts in to improve his game. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in a Green Jacket at some point, and I obviously think Brooks Koepka will be adding the title to his Major haul but not this time round.

I’ll be catching up with Brooks and few other players at Jupiter just before the LIV Golf event in Miami, so I’ll get a better impression of who is shaping up well for Augusta. At this stage we’ll only be doing a little bit of work and fine tuning. Most of the hard work has already been done at this point in the season, I just need to check in and make sure they are doing the right thing. I will watch them play and not just hit balls on the range, as mistakes are not just technical but sometimes players opt to play the wrong shot.

It ‘ll be interesting to see if Tiger tees it up at the Masters. I know it’s on his schedule, but the fact that he’s still able to walk is a miracle, let alone play a Major. Augusta is a very physically demanding course and watching it on television you will have no true concept of the elevation drop on the course. You also need to remember Tiger is nearly 50 and at the Genesis Invitational he was getting back spasms after the opening round.

TIGER RESPECT

I’ve known Tiger a long time and have a huge amount of respect for him. Not just for what he has achieved on the course, but his mind set is something you can not teach. So, when people ask me if Tiger should retire my answer is swift. If Tiger wants to play, he still believes he can win and that is all we need to know. You are a long time not playing and the game still needs Tiger.

My Tiger answer is normally backed up with the question of why I retired from playing. That’s even easier to answer. Money! I’d finished in the top 60 on the European Tour Order of Merit and lost money on the year. I even finished 33rd at The Open that year and lost money on the week.

A lot of Tour players these days do not realise that golf is a minority sport, and they are very lucky to be competing for as much money as they do. The vast sums are only available due to people right at the very top who have got huge amounts to invest in our sport. Prior to golf enthusiastic investors, players such as Seve, Faldo, Woosnam, Langer and Lyle brought money via sponsors into the game. Ironically all won the Masters!

Television has always been the financial golden ticket but as I keep on saying we are a minority sport and ever since it was removed from terrestrial television interest levels have been dropping. Kids these days at our range are more interested in their Top Tracer scores than professional golf. They’ll ask me for a swing tip but never who I think will win at the weekend.

I remember being able to watch the Masters, The Open and the PGA Championship at Wentworth on the BBC for free. This gave the sport exposure to millions and was why many people decided to pick up a club. The thing that worries me is our range in the UK is busy but only a small percentage will go on to join a local golf club.

THE HORSE COURSE

Nestled in the heartland of America, perched on the edge of the Snake River canyon, you’ll discover The Prairie Club – a golfing haven boasting one of the world’s most distinctive courses.

Step onto the Horse Course, a visionary marvel unveiled in 2010, far ahead of its time. Featuring 10 unconventional

holes, this layout defies tradition; golfers navigate the course freely, embracing creativity akin to a game of basketball’s ‘H.O.R.S.E.’. Simply drop your ball, select a green, and embark on your personalised journey – no set order, no fixed path. Forget about keeping score; instead, immerse yourself in hole-by-hole matchups, fueling friendly

wagers and endless enjoyment.

Here, there are no designated tee boxes; the winner of the previous hole dictates the starting point for the next, fostering a fluid, dynamic experience. With its creatively contoured greens and awe-inspiring vistas, the Horse Course epitomises the crowning touch to your Prairie Club adventure.

COURSE

Photography: Getty Images

COURSE

YOUR VIEWS

Pick of topical letters that have been emailed in to Worldwide Golf

RORY FOR MASTERS GLORY

Dear Worldwide Golf,

After seeing Rory McIlroy on the front cover of last month’s mag, I wanted to reach out to express my admiration for the Northern Irishman and my hopes for his upcoming performance in the Masters tournament. As a passionate golfer and regular reader, I wanted to share my thoughts on one of the game’s most exciting players and see if I could get my name in print!

There’s no doubt McIlroy’s skill on the golf course is still truly impressive, and his recent win at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January was nothing short of inspiring. Watching him play is always a treat – his dedication and passion for the game shines through in every swing. Hopefully he plays in Dubai for many more years to come as we have been lucky in this part of the world for a while as he continues to tee it up here regularly.

With the Masters just around the corner now, there’s a sense of anticipation building up. Rory’s turning 35 this year, so there’s a feeling that time might be running out for him to achieve certain milestones. But I’m hopeful that he’ll be able to seize the moment and make a run for that green jacket. Hopefully his triumph at Emirates Golf Club gives him some added confidence to do just that.

Completing the grand slam at Augusta would be a remarkable achievement for Rory and a momentous occasion for golf fans everywhere. I’ll be rooting for him every step of the way.

Thanks for providing a platform for fans like me to share our love for the game and our admiration for its top players.

Best regards,

Steven Jacobsen

THE RETURN OF ANTHONY KIM

Dear Worldwide Golf,

Was it just me, or did the whole hoopla orchestrated by Greg Norman and LIV Golf to announce Anthony Kim’s comeback feel more like over-the-top Hollywood histrionics than a genuine sporting moment? The teaser video, with its emotional promises of redemption, was cringeworthy to the max. It seems they were aiming for attention through theatrics rather than substance.

Anthony Kim, once hailed as a golfing prodigy, now emerges from obscurity amid fanfare that’s bordering on the ridiculous. While some fans might be nostalgic for his past glory days, it’s hard to ignore the reality: his last competitive game was over a decade ago. Is it fair to set such high expectations for someone who’s been out of the game for so long?

And can we talk about the whole, “PGA Tour equals darkness and evil” insinuation? Seriously? That’s a bit over the top, don’t you think? Kim’s absence from the sport, for whatever reason, doesn’t warrant such melodramatic language.

Let’s be real here: Is the buzz around Kim’s return genuine, or is it just a manufactured spectacle to drum up publicity for LIV Golf? While it’s exciting to see a former star make a comeback, let’s not get carried away. We need to acknowledge the reality of Kim’s long hiatus from competitive play.

Sure, I’m curious about Kim’s return, but let’s approach this with a critical eye and a healthy dose of skepticism. Let’s not get swept up in the marketing hype. Instead, let’s focus on what really matters in golf: skill, integrity, and sportsmanship.

Your sincerely,

Rob Flynn

With the game currently divided, I was delighted to see the Masters Tournament extend invitations to three talented international golfers, especially Joaquín Niemann who of course plays in the LIV Golf League.

My golfing buddies and I don’t care what tour golfers play on, whether that be the Asian, DP World, PGA Tour or the LIV Golf League – we just want to see the best players competing against each other every week. While that seems like a pie in the sky idea right now, the Major Championships should rise above that and be stacked with the best of the best going to-to-toe over 72 holes at iconic venues across the world.

Across

CROSSWORD

Complete the crossword puzzle below

Name:

Down

1 Dubai-based player who joined LIV Golf last month

4. First Asian-born player to win The Masters

ACROSS

6. The club where Tiger Woods made his debut

7. Name of the player who made a hole-in-one from 30,000 feet in Dubai

Let’s be serious, the World Rankings right now are a bit of a joke and do not represent what is currently happening in the game. How can anyone seriously believe that Dustin Johnson is the 238th best player in the world? It just doesn’t add up, so thank god for the Masters Tournament extending an invitation to Niemann, who is one of the form players on the planet right now, no matter what the World Ranking says. Fingers crossed other Major Championships follow suit to ensure we really are seeing the elite players go to battle.

Created using the Crossword Maker on TheTeacher

2 The city where last month's Saudi Ladies International took place

1. Dubai-based player who joined LIV Golf last month.

3. Designer of Al Hamra Golf Club and Doha Club

4. First Asian-born player to win The Masters.

9 Longest driver on the DP World Tour last season

10. Animal's den you're entering when playing 9, 10 and 11 at The Els Club

5. Sergio Garcia's first child, who is named af 13th hole at Augusta National

6. The club where Tiger Woods made his PGA Tour debut.

8. The bird that makes up the Abu Dhabi Championship trophy

7. Name of the player who made a hole-in-one from 30,000 feet in Dubai.

9. Longest driver on the DP World Tour last season.

10. Animal’s den you are entering when playing 9, 10 & 11 at The Els Club.

DOWN

2. The city where last month’s Saudi Ladies International took place.

I think I speak on behalf of a bunch of golf fans when I say we are sick are tired of the division in the game. Let’s all move on and be at peace with one another for the good of the game.

Alan Moody

3. Designer of Al Hamra Golf Club & Doha Golf Club.

5. Sergio Garcia’s first child, who is named after the 13th hole at Augusta National.

8. The bird that makes up the Abu Dhabi Championship trophy.

WIN A DOZEN TITLEIST GOLF BALLS

Please send in your letters to letters@worldwide.golf relating your thoughts on the sport and golf in the Middle East. If its is published in the March issue you will receive a dozen Titleist Tour Soft balls.

*All prizes to be delivered to a physical address in the UAE or GCC. Excludes P.O box addresses

UNITE THE GAME

Nick Taylor recorded three consecutive birdies on the 18th. One to force a play-off and then two in extra holes to beat Charley Hoffman

It was Taylor’s fourth PGA Tour triumph and avenges his loss last year after finishing second to Scottie Scheffler

The Canadian tied the course record in round one with an 11 under par 60

Tournament officials were forced to shut spectator gates earlier than planned on Saturday after being overwhelmed by turnout and sales of alcohol were temporarily halted

211 fans were kicked out of the event, more than double last year’s number

It was Frittelli’s third DP World Tour win in his 115th appearance and first for six years and 63 days.

It was the 172nd DP World Tour win by players from South Africa.

Marcus Armitage and Chen Guxin both carded a hole-in-one. Armitage’s came at the 12th while Guxin needed just one blow at the second.

Challenge Tour graduate Marco Penge led the way in driving distance for the week, averaging 335.13 yards off the tee – more than 37 yards longer than the Tour Average.

The UAE’s Joshua Grenville-Wood made the cut on the number before finishing in a share of 62nd.

VENUE ROYAl GOLF CLUB, BAHRAIN

WINNER DYLAN FRITTELLI SCORE 67 - 68 - 69 - 72 (-13)

Rikuya Hoshino became the fourth Japanese winner in DP World Tour history with victory.

Zander Lombard’s putter was hot at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, with the South African averaging 10 one putts per round – the tournament best.

He followed compatriots Isao Aoki, Hideki Matsuyama and 2023 Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Ryo Hisatsune to win on the DP World Tour.

Rasmus Højgaard finished inside the top 11 for all five events in the Middle East, with a runner-up finish in Ras Al Khaimah his best result.

Zander Lombard made the weekend once again, with the South African making the cut at every event since the D+D Real Czech Masters last August.

Eight players avoided a three-putt in Doha, including former champion Jorge Campillo, Matthew Southgate and Andrea Pavan.

VENUE DOHA GOLF CLUB, QATAR WINNER RIKUYA HOSHINO SCORE 66 - 69 - 63 - 67 (-19)

Photography: Getty Images

Tiger reveals new brand following Nike split

Tiger Woods ended weeks of speculation last month after launching his new Sun Day Red brand following his split from Nike after a hugely successful 27 years together.

The new brand, which pays homage to Tiger wearing red on a Sunday at tournaments, also comes with the creation of a new logo that depicts a tiger jumping, replacing the “TW” logo Woods used most of his career. The tiger features

UAE amateur secures Challenge Tour start

Raghav Gulati secured a start in one of the two upcoming Challenge Tour events in the UAE after shooting rounds of 69, 70 and 69 for a total of 208, eight under par, to win the Men’s Open at Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai – a World Amateur Golf Ranking event.

The 16 year-old, who plays off a +4 handicap and represents Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, was tied for the lead after the first round with a best of the day opening 69, and followed it up with a 70 to take a two shot lead into the final round.

Another three under par 69 in his final round in damp and

15 stripes, a nod to Woods’ 15 Major titles. “It started with mum,” Woods said at a press conference launching the brand alongside TaylorMade. “Mum thought being a Capricorn that my power colour was red, so I wore red as a junior golfer and I won some tournaments. Lo and behold, I go to a university that is red, Stanford is red. We wore red on the final day of every single

tournament, and then every single tournament I’ve played as a professional I’ve worn red. It’s just become synonymous with me.

“I have learned so much over the years and have a lifetime of experience adjusting my apparel and footwear to help me play better based on the way it was constructed.

“There are things that I could tell you that no one knew I was doing over the

drizzly weather saw him win by an impressive seven shots. The win secures the youngster a start in either the Abu Dhabi



years. I’m ready to share those secrets with the world. Sun Day Red will embody a love of playing and competing, and we are for people that share

those values, whether it’s on the course, or in life. We will be anchored to putting the athlete first in the product decisions we make.” 

McIlroy wants new golf tour like ‘Champions League’

Rory McIlory reiterated his desire for one global golf tour last month, with the four-time Dubai Desert Classic champion believing it’s the best way to heal the fractures in the game.

“I think you would just create a tour for the top 80 players in the world,” said McIlroy.

“I think everything sort of feeds up into that one. You know, the way I look at it, it would be like Champions League in European football. It sort of sits above the rest of the leagues and then all those leagues sort of feed up into that and the best of the best play against each other in the Champions League is the way I would think about it.

“I said this at the back end of last year, everyone’s got their own interests in this game and that’s what happens when you’ve got quite a fractured landscape at this point. So trying to align everyone’s interests and trying to convince everyone that this is the right thing to do for the game of golf as a whole, and if you can convince everyone of that, then it would be pretty simple. But right now it’s just trying to get everyone singing off the same hymn sheet.” 

Challenge at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club or the UAE Challenge at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in April.

HARRY KANE IS IN

HARRY KANE INVESTS IN SUSTAINABLE APPAREL BRAND REFLO

VIGGO SHINES ON

Emblazoned on the wall of the Tommy Fleetwood Academy at Jumeirah Golf Estates, where the best players in the world hone their games during the DP World Tour Championship, and where countless promising young stars of the future put in hours of practice as they dream of one day following in the footsteps of Fleetwood, Rory and Co. is a simple yet overwhelmingly poignant tribute: Viggo Will Shine Forever

By Rick Bevan

FEATURES VIGGO SORENSEN

Most people who are part of the Dubai golf community will know the story of Viggo Sorensen. An absurdly talented young golfer taken far too soon. A young man about to set out on the adventure of a lifetime, just a couple of months away from beginning a golf scholarship at college in the US, when he died suddenly after a massive brain haemorrhage in early 2022. He was just 17 years old.

For his friends and everyone who knew him on the local golf scene, it was devastating. For his family, it was the unthinkable. No parent should ever have to experience the death of their child and it’s hard for anyone with kids to imagine how they would deal with it. This was the tragic situation Nathalie Grall-Sorensen and her husband, Thomas, suddenly found themselves thrust into. In one heart-wrenching moment, everything changed and their lives would never be the same again. Yet, somehow, they had to find the strength to carry on.

Their first bold and decisive move was to ensure that Viggo’s passing wasn’t in vain by donating his organs to others in need. That action alone saved no fewer than five lives. But more than that, it was the catalyst that sent Nathalie on a crusade which has seen her become one of the UAE’s leading advocates for organ donation. In the last 12 months alone, she’s attended 25 conferences to give speeches as well as appearing across multiple media channels, tirelessly promoting organ donation every chance she gets.

“I’ve been very busy, everything is happening

so fast,” says Nathalie. “When you focus on blessing others you receive a lot back. I have a lot of gratitude that I have the strength to do what I need to do on this path that Viggo put me on. It’s as if he’s behind me, pushing me on.

“There’s not one week where something is not happening so I’m very proud of the impact that Viggo’s story has had, it’s incredible. Just yesterday I was contacted because there’s a big international congress in Abu Dhabi and they want me to come and be a speaker. I’m so blessed. Viggo saved five lives with his organs but he’s saving far more now.”

Organ donation is still a fairly new concept in the UAE, having only been made legal in 2017 and a key part of Nathalie’s mission is to educate medical

professionals on the need to provide ongoing care for donor families. A touching video about Viggo’s story is played at conferences around the region and beyond as well as to employees in large organisations such as ADNOC and DEWA.

“It’s very important for me to make sure the donor families get the proper support,” she says. “Now they train the staff how to deal with this situation because organ donation has not been happening for very long in the UAE.

“Something clicked for me and I knew that I needed to do something because I had the strength to do it. Recently I met a mum who lost her daughter at six years old and donated the organs. It was four years ago and she is still broken.

Photography: Worldwide Golf

Nathalie received an award for Achievements and Outstanding Commitment in the field of Organ Donation from the Hayat Organ Donation Program

I realised Viggo gave me so much strength that I can help the others.”

It was announced by the Emirates News Agency (WAM) in January that the UAE has achieved growth of 417 percent over the past five years in the number of organ donors per million of population. The Hayat Organ Donation now has 25,678 registered donors and is the fastest growing programme in the world.

Nathalie’s efforts have quite rightly been acknowledged by the organisations she is helping to the extent that she was honoured with three awards in the space of 10 days earlier this year. Among them was a prestigious award from the French consulate for humanitarian action in the UAE. It was presented to Nathalie on February 1, 2024, two years to the day since Viggo’s passing.

“I believe in signs,” she says. “That was definitely one of them.”

Viggo has awards for outstanding achievement named after him at Trump International Golf Club, Dubai, Jumeirah Golf Estates, GEMS Academy (where he was a student) and the Emirates Golf Federation.

Four club members, who wish to keep their generosity anonymous, paid for an engraved bench bearing his name to be placed on the 17th hole of the Earth course, where he spent so many happy times. And the swing studio carrying that poignant message, where other talented golfers now work

hard in pursuit of the dream that was cruelly stolen from him, is named in his honour.

“I always say in all my conferences that this can happen to anyone,” says Nathalie. “My life changed in one minute. In one minute, I was put into another world. We have all the power to make a difference and to give the precious gift of life. This is the message that is important to me.”

Viggo’s time in the physical world may have ended all too soon but in death, his impact has been enormous and his indomitable spirit lives on, manifested in the amazing work Nathalie is doing to save lives and improve care for donor families across the region and around the world. Viggo is indeed shining on. 

“I always say in all my conferences that this can happen to anyone. My life changed in one minute. In one minute, I was put into another world. We have all the power to make a difference and to give the precious gift of life. This is the message that is important to me.”

- Nathalie Grall-Sorensen

Former Long Drive World Champion Maurice Allen is among the many people whose lives Viggo’s touched. He paid his own special tribute by wearing customised shoes bearing Viggo’s image

Photography: Getty Images / Reflo

AIM KANE TAKES IN THE FASHION GAME

Rick Bevan talks to England goal machine, Harry Kane, and Dubai-based entrepreneur Rory MacFayden about their mission to bring game-changing high performance, sustainable golf wear to the masses.

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Harry Kane’s performances on the football pitch have seen him become one of the world’s biggest and most well-known sports stars. England captain and his country’s all-time leading goal scorer, he’s now banging them in for fun in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich after becoming the most expensive signing in the league’s history with his €110 million transfer from Tottenham Hotspur last summer.

Like many footballers, he’s also pretty handy on the golf course and has set his sights on becoming a bona fide game-changer in the world of sustainable apparel after investing in Dubai-born clothing brand Reflo. The forward-thinking company uses recycled plastic and discarded coffee beans to make gear that, aside from being environmentally friendly, actually looks the business and can go toe-to-toe in the performance stakes with the best sports clothing in the market.

It all started at a celebrity golf event in the summer of 2022…

“It was at the Icons Series, which is a Ryder Cup style tournament for sports stars with a Rest of the World team vs the USA out in New York. We were wearing Reflo gear for it and I met the co-founder Rory out there,” says Kane, who currently plays off three, which is a ‘slide’ in a handicap that once reached the lofty heights of plus-two – the 30-yearold citing a lack of golf during the frosty Munich winter in mitigation. “We got talking about the brand and I really liked the clothing so I spoke to my brother Charlie, who is my manager, and wanted to find out more about it. We kept in touch and the relationship grew from there. Rory and I chatted about what Reflo were doing and what they wanted to achieve and it just seemed like a really good fit.”

The co-founder Kane mentions is 35-year-old Dubai-based golf nut Rory MacFayden who set out on his journey to create an apparel brand that is both sustainable and high-performance by

launching Reflo in November 2021. Having worked in the sports and entertainment industry, he’d long harboured an ambition to start a sustainabilityfocused golf apparel brand and felt, with his connections, he might have a good chance of getting some decent names to wear the clothing and help promote it. It’s fair to say that the idea of working with a sporting behemoth of Kane’s calibre and profile wasn’t on the Englishman’s radar at that stage.

“When he was wearing it at the Icons Series and said, “I love this apparel, it’s really good” – that alone would have been a ‘wow moment’ and something to be amazed by,” says MacFayden with a smile. “But the fact that his team then reached out and said

that they wanted to be involved in the brand was humbling to say the least.

“It’s amazing to have him on board, we’ve got a lot planned with him over the next few years. He’s not just a brand ambassador, he’s truly part of Team Reflo.”

The company describe their golf clothing as ‘sustainable performance wear’ and while many brands are jumping on the eco-bandwagon at the moment, Reflo actually walks the walk.

Their apparel is predominantly made from recycled polyester, derived from single-use plastic waste destined for landfill which results in its fabrics using 50% less energy and producing 70% less carbon than virgin polyester, requiring no new oil. But there’s more to it than just the fabrics they use.

Environmental Impact

“Sustainability is being used more and more as a marketing tool by brands but for us, it’s our North Star,” says MacFayden. “We genuinely make every decision around what is the most sustainable option within the business. We do lots of stuff that people will never see, planting a tree for every product sold, carbon offsetting our workforce by supporting sustainable energy projects, having no single use plastics anywhere in our packaging, recycling old samples into golf club head covers. I could go on!

“There are lots of things we do and for us it’s about making a sustainable choice at every step rather than using sustainability as a marketing tool which we see some of the big brands do.”

Kane adds: “Whenever I’m investing in brands, I always look at what they’re trying to achieve, what it’s going to look like in the future. Being a dad of four children now I’m looking at their future and what the world is going to be like when they’re older.

“If I’m being honest, I’m still new to sustainability and I’m learning more about it by partnering with Reflo. It fits well with my values and where I want to see the world go. Even if it’s just little changes it can make a big difference. I want to have an input in the company and hopefully grow with the company.

Photography: Getty Images / Reflo

FEATURES HARRY KANE

Having the investment, it’s exciting for me to try to push the brand from my side as much as possible. Obviously, there’s a long way to go still but I think it’s an exciting challenge for both parties.

“To have each other’s opinions and feedback and talk about where we want to go and I’m excited to be part of that journey.”

Kane first picked up a set of clubs when he was around six years old after his dad took him to the local course in his hometown of Chingford in East London. But it was when he was around 17 that his love affair with golf truly kicked in after he spent a summer playing every day and got his handicap down from 18 to 10. As his obsession grew, he played every chance he got, becoming a member at the prestigious Wentworth Club and eventually getting down to scratch and then pushing on further to reach plus-two for a period.

His sporting profile means he gets to have more ‘bucket-list’ golfing experiences than the average Joe. At the Icons Series he lined up in a team captained by Ernie Els alongside the likes of former tennis World No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam winner Ash Barty, boxing pound-for-pound champion Canelo Alvarez and Australian cricket colossus Ricky Ponting. His opponents on the USA team captained by Fred Couples included Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps, NFL Hall of Famer and Super Bowl champion Michael Strahan and two-time NBA champion J.R. Smith.

He played Augusta the day after Scottie Scheffler won the 2022 Masters. He’s even achieved pretty much every amateur golfer’s dream by playing with

Tiger. But he doesn’t see himself following in the footsteps of Lee Sharpe and Andriy Shevchenko by turning pro once his football career is over.

“I’d never say never in life but I think the pro golfers are next level,” he says. “The time they put in, the commitment they put in is next level. I’ve been lucky enough to play with some of the pros and it’s just a different game for them. So, I think it’s highly unlikely as they’re a different level to me.

“If that had been with a golf ball instead of a football maybe I’d have been able to make it as a golfer but I think with any elite sport sometimes you under appreciate how much work and how much practice goes into it.”

“My game is average at the moment! I haven’t been able to play that much since I moved to Munich. I got out for one round with Thomas Müller early on when the weather was a bit better but since the weather turned, I haven’t really been able to play. I can still hit it okay but I’m not playing too well at the moment.

“I do think with the right mindset and the right belief you can achieve what you want to achieve in life. When I was young, I definitely wasn’t the best footballer there was but I worked really hard and showed a lot of self-belief and resilience and

became what I am now.

“If that had been with a golf ball instead of a football maybe I’d have been able to make it as a golfer but I think with any elite sport sometimes you under appreciate how much work and how much practice goes into it. To just all of sudden become a pro golfer would take hours and hours of hard work and dedication which obviously I haven’t got right now. But when you see these guys in the flesh hitting balls, how consistent they are. It’s great to watch.”

For now, Kane’s main focus is on the pitch, where he’s scored an eye-watering 387 goals for club and country to date, including his latest feat of becoming the fastest player in Bundesliga history to reach 25 goals in a season, hitting the milestone in just 22 games.

His football talent has seen him become one of the most recognisable sports stars on the planet and it’s that global profile that he hopes will be one of his key contributions to Reflo’s growth.

“I think that’s where I can help the business,” says Kane who has 16.7 million followers on Instagram alone. “With football being so big around the world, I’m sure I’ve got a few fans who appreciate what I do. They’ll be watching, looking at what I’m wearing, what I’m doing. Hopefully we can get them to be part of it as well. Hopefully that’s where I come in, to help push Reflo around the world and get eyes on it and hopefully that helps sell some product!”

For such a young company, Reflo have already made impressive progress. Aside from kitting out a plethora of sporting legends at the Icons Series, they

Photography: Getty Images / Reflo

Reflo co-founder Rory MacFayden is pictured with Harry Kane at a special event to announce the football star’s investment in the sustainable golf apparel brand

recently designed an exclusive collection for the PGA Tour’s notorious Waste Management Phoenix Open, which completely sold out, and South African two-time DP World Tour winner Ockie Strydom is a brand ambassador.

But MacFayden hopes their new big signing will be the catalyst to them achieving their lofty ambitions.

“We’ve achieved so much in the two years since our launch, and it is an incredibly exciting time for us to welcome Harry into the Reflo family,” he says. “We can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve got in store as we continue our mission to become the most sustainable performance wear brand in the world.

“Harry is definitely a key part in achieving our ambitions. He’s one of the most performance driven people you’ll ever meet. He’s driven by excellence and that ethos is something we have as well so we’re perfectly aligned in that thinking. We’re a performance wear brand and he is the epitome of high performance.

Brand Growth

“In basic terms, he really helps us push the brand out far and wide to people who will probably never have heard of us before. As an investor in the brand, he’s keen to help us grow in every way he can and support the brand wherever he can. Keeping on evolving the products, taking it to the next level, he wants to be involved every step of the way. It’s a really exciting future and its brilliant we can now say he’s one of our business partners.”

By his own admission, it was hard work, belief and ambition above all that were the key factors in Kane’s rise to the top in football and he’s set on bringing that same mentally to the boardroom table at Reflo.

“We want to be one of the biggest golf brands out there,” he says. “That’s the aim, we want to be as good as any competitor on the market. The sky’s the limit, I don’t think there’s a ceiling on what we want to achieve. We’re doing as much as possible to be the best and seeing how far that takes us.

“We’re still relatively early on the journey and there’s a lot of good things ahead, a lot of great products and things we want to do. I guess time will tell but I know with the people behind it, and the work ethic, and the way we’ve come so far in a short period, there’s definitely a chance to really push into the top of that market.”

Kane’s venture into sustainable golf apparel with Reflo marks not only a personal investment but a commitment to a greener, more ecoconscious future. From his prolific feats on the football field to his obsessive pursuit of golfing prowess, the skilled marksman’s journey embodies dedication, ambition, and now, sustainability. Teaming up with Reflo means not just a partnership but a shared vision of excellence.

As he continues to inspire football fans around the world with his performance-focussed mindset, Kane’s foray into sustainable fashion amplifies the message that success isn’t just about scoring goals or sinking putts —it’s about making a positive impact, one recycled thread at a time.

“It all comes down to preparation. Penalties in football are the only part of the game that I can draw a real parallel to golf with because all eyes are on you in that single moment. But I just trust what I’ve done to prepare. These guys practice day in day out on the range day in day and hopefully they can handle the pressure when it comes to crunch time, and that’s what we all look forward to seeing,” - Harry Kane

Reflo is available at Jumeirah Golf Estates and Golf Superstore, Mall of the Emirates

RYAN

Photography: Getty Images

FOX & TEEING OFF TICKING BOXES

Top 50 in the world and the winner of the BMW PGA Championship. Ryan Fox has taken his career to new heights over the last two seasons, and the sky is seemingly now the limit for the high-flying New Zealander. Will Kent caught up with the 37-year-old to find out just how he’s managed to take his game to the next level.

FEATURES

RYAN FOX

My first ever interview with Fox was back in the summer of 2022 when he had just climbed inside the top 50 of the world rankings for the first time in his career. Back then, he was enjoying a great spell of form. The Kiwi had recently won in Ras Al Khaimah, and should have also triumphed at the Dutch Open if it wasn’t for a messy double-bogey on the 72nd hole. He was on a surge to the top.

However, if I’m honest, I wasn’t expecting it to last. I thought this was just a great spell in good career. We often witness how fragile form is in golf and even at the amateur level, it frequently feels like we are one swing away from either selling our clubs, or Googling how to qualify for The Open Championship.

At the time of that first interview, Fox was – and still is – in his mid 30s. He’d been professional over a decade, and didn’t really strike me as the next ‘breakout’ star on the DP World Tour. Yes, he was playing well, but surely if he was destined for incredible things, shouldn’t they have happened by now?

Well, I was very wrong. Starting at the beginning of 2022, the big-hitting Kiwi progressed from

being an accomplished DP World Tour professional to now; a Rolex Series winner playing for doubledigits millions on the PGA Tour who wouldn’t shock the world if he won a Major.

“I’m pretty chuffed on last year,” said Fox when I asked him to review the last 12 months. “It was going to be a hard year to beat 2022, and I felt like for the most part I had a better year in ‘23 than ‘22. I ticked off every box that I wanted to tick off last year, and I’ve got some exciting stuff to look forward to this year as well.”

Ticking the box that read ‘beat Rory McIlroy to win at Wentworth’ must have been a sweet feeling. A share of second place at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship two weeks later must have been pretty nice as well. Results like this just weren’t common for him five years ago.

Fox’s seasons usually consisted of a few top 10 finishes with the odd look at winning an event here and there, while pocketing the best part of a million euros in prize money along the way. Unspectacular for the modern game, but still solid enough. But last year he won more than €3 million on the DP World Tour alone.

When I quizzed the four-time DP World Tour winner as to how he’s improved his results so quickly, he responded: “Honestly, I don’t really know. A little bit off the golf course.

“After Covid, everything kind of settled down a bit. It’s felt much more normal, that helped a little bit. Travel wise it’s a lot more normal, I enjoyed the off-course stuff a lot more. Then, a lot of little things have come right.

“I’m in a good place mentally, a good place family wise, and a good place coaching wise. All of those little things have helped, it doesn’t take much.

“There’s not a big improvement needed necessarily in this game to get better. It’s only one or two percent here and there, and that’s what it’s been. I tidied up a couple of little things and that’s seemed to make quite a big difference.”

Green Jacket Hopes

Fox is also set take another trip to Augusta National next month in his quest of becoming the first New Zealander to ever win the Masters. Adding Augusta alongside St Andrews and Wentworth as venues you’ve won in your career would be a special box to tick off, too.

The Kiwi finished tied 26th last year on his debut despite illness and there’s a growing trend at the Masters that you need to be a longer hitter to win. Powerhouses Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka battled it out last year to reinforce that statement,

Ryan Fox poses with the trophy with mother Adele Fox, father and former New Zealand Rugby International Grant Fox, wife Anneke Fox and their daughter Isabel Fox on the Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole after winning the 2022 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship on the Old Course St. Andrews

Photography: Getty Images

and Fox also fits that style of golfer.

Obviously, there’s a lot more needed to win the first Major than the year than just distance off the tee. Just refresh your memory of Bryson DeChambeau’s poor performances there despite calling it a par 67. Every asset of your game clearly needs to be in shape, but you do also need length off the tee box.

“Yeah, very much so,” added Fox when I asked if he’s looking forward to returning to Augusta. “I had pneumonia there last year on the weekend, so hopefully I don’t have to deal with that again this year!

“You know, it’s just a dream come true to get to play that event. My wife missed it last year, she was 36 weeks pregnant at the time and couldn’t come. I’m chuffed to be able to go back and take her and the family, to let them enjoy the experience as well.”

PGA Tour Focus

In addition to another trip down Magnolia Lane, Fox will also spend the vast majority of 2024 teeing it up in the States. He secured fulltime PGA Tour privileges following a fifth-place finish on the Race to Dubai Rankings last year, another highlight for his ever-improving CV.

While the DP World Tour has taken some criticism for this new incentive of the top 10 players gaining PGA Tour cards, it’s undoubtedly a good thing for world golf. A New Zealander playing permanently in America is great for the game’s image, and a reminder that this sport truly is international that has no barriers to entry.

“The PGA Tour is definitely my focus,” Fox explained. “I got a couple events under my belt earlier in the year in the Middle East on the DP World Tour as it’s a really nice way to start the year in Dubai. I’ll be over in the States for a decent spell now. After the win at the BMW PGA Championship last year it’s nice to have some

guaranteed status so I can give the US a pretty good crack.”

As humble as ever with his answers, and equally as forthcoming with his time; Fox is one of the most likeable guys on Tour. He’s simply great to watch as well with one of the quickest pre-shot routines in the game with a swing speed to match. He’ll be hoping 2024 is another year of box ticking, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he checked the one reading ‘win at Augusta National’. Good luck to him. 

(Above) Ryan Fox and his father Grant pictured during the Par 3 contest prior to the 2023 Masters Tournament.

(Below) Powering off the woodchip on the third hole at Augusta.

VIKTORY

Photography: Getty Images

The UAE has always been a goldmine for budding golf prodigies – from Josh Hill, who clinched the title as the youngest champ in an Official World Golf Ranking event in 2019, to Dubai-born star Rayhan Thomas, who ditched the sizzling sun for the cut-throat collegiate golf scene. But now there’s a new name on everyone’s lips, with Danish teenager Viktor Kofod-Olsen causing a bit of a stir within the golf industry in the UAE in the first few months of the year.

It all started when the 17-year-old produced an impressive display at the Junior Dubai Desert Classic, carding rounds of 71 and 69 to lift the trophy against a strong field that featured golfers from across the world. A start in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic Pro-Am quickly followed, which the GEMS Wellington International student went on to win alongside DP World Tour star Tom McKibbin.

An impressive Dubai Desert Classic double – surely that can’t be topped? Well, it well and truly was when the youngster received an invitation from the Emirates Golf Federation to compete in the third edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Championship. Not bad for someone who spent the days leading up to the DP World Tour event in a classroom! We needed to know more about this teenage sensation, so caught up with the +3.4 handicapper to find out everything from how he got started in the game to how he dealt with the nerves playing against the likes of Rasmus Højgaard and Thorbjørn Olesen.

Worldwide Golf: Viktor, let’s start at the beginning, when did you first start playing golf?

Viktor Kofod-Olsen: I first took up the game when I moved to Dubai in 2009. We’ve always been members of Emirates Golf Club as a family; we all the play the game. My brother plays college golf in the States and both my parents play golf. I went to the range with my dad and brother to hit balls and I found it really interesting. I then started going to the driving range on my own, that’s when I realised this game had caught my attention. I would hit different shots and try different things out on the range and really enjoyed it.

WWG: When did it hit you that you were pretty good at playing golf?

VK-O: I probably realised I was pretty good when I was taken into the elite team at Emirates Golf Club, which was run by Stephen Deane. The group was primarily for kids two to three years older than me, but my brother and I were asked to join, and as one of the younger ones in the group I knew I must have been pretty good to get into the team. I kept practicing and had lessons with Stephen to keep getting better and ensure I was keeping up with the older boys.

WWG: You just mentioned Stephen Deane in that answer, I believe he’s still your coach to this day. How has he helped improve your game over the years?

VK-O: Stephen has been my coach ever since joining the elite team. He’s played a big role in improving my game. We’ve always looked at each part of my game together, while he’s also helped me out with the mental side of the game on the course. He was my caddie at the Ras Al Khaimah Championship which was a big deal for me – to have my coach on the bag and being able to talk to him about different shots and how I conducted myself out on the course was really helpful. He’s always had a big role to play in my game, I’ve never wanted to switch coach as we have a great relationship, and he knows my swing better than anybody.

WWG: What are the biggest strengths and weakness in your game?

VK-O : Ever since I got into that elite team I was primarily playing with kids that were older than me. My brother is also three years older, so I’d play a lot with him and his mates. I’d want to hit it as far them and even further, so that part my game has developed quite well over the years. I’ve been able to be precise and long off the tee – it’s one of the strongest parts of my game and one I can rely on under pressure. Another is putting. I currently don’t take any lessons for that side of things as I believe putting is more a of a ‘feel’ element to the game. If I have a decent putting stroke and I can read the green speeds correctly, my putting is usually pretty good. In terms of the weakest part of my game, I would say it’s my headspace and mental part of the game. When I was younger, also now actually, I would expect myself to play really well, so when that one bad shot came in, I would lose my head and get upset with myself and ask why that was happening. I’d say that also had something to do with people I was playing with as they’d usually be better than me, so I looked up to them and wanted to play as good as them without thinking about the age difference we had.

I’ve been working on my mental game with Stephen as well. I’ve made myself a ten-step rule, where I can be upset with myself over a shot for ten steps after I’ve hit the shot, but from there it needs to be gone from my mind and the focus needs to be on the next shot. Otherwise, it’s like a domino effect which can lead to my next few shots being just as bad, so that’s why I’ve implemented that ten-step rule to ensure I don’t ruin a round.

WWG: You started the year with a bang by winning the Junior Dubai Desert Classic. Talk us through how you were feeling after that victory?

VK-O: Winning the Junior Dubai Desert Classic was incredible. I played last year and was in second place going into the final round before finishing third, which was quite disappointing for me as I really wanted to win it. This year I had plenty of motivation to put that right, so to secure that title of Junior Dubai Desert Classic champion was huge. To play under Tour conditions, the rough being as high and dense as it was

The Dane kicked off the year with victory at the Junior Dubai Desert Classic

Photography: Getty Images

and playing a tournament under the lights was definitely an experience. To be able to say I was crowned champion at my home club is pretty nice.

WWG: Next up was the Dubai Desert Classic Pro-Am, where you also emerged victorious. What did you learn from playing with Tom McKibbin?

VK-O: It was another amazing experience. I actually had the chance to play three years ago alongside J.B. Hansen and this year I was paired with Tom McKibbin. He’s only four years older than me so it was amazing to play with someone who I have quite a lot in common with. We had quite a bit to talk about, including him giving me some motivation on turning pro and explaining how he manages his game and practice. We even exchanged Instagram handles to set up a round together but then I ended up playing the Ras Al Khaimah Championship, so we never got round to it. Being around that environment of Tour players preparing for a tournament was a really great experience.

me in my headspace

the time to get angry at to go to the ball, find the distance and focus on that otherwise the next shot would be

The other thing was having a caddie, as I’m not used to having anyone on the bag. But it was nice to get the emotions out and talk to Stephen rather than talking to myself or keeping it in if I hit a bad shot. I would explain how I felt and why I did what I did rather than having to think about it to myself until the end of the round. Lastly, rather than being nervous and intimidated by the professionals, I felt like the pros I played with had quite a big impact on my experience as I wasn’t too familiar with them. I think I would have been a lot more nervous had I known them more. I played with two really nice German guys, Maximillian Rottluff and Freddy Schott. If I was playing with the guys that I knew well and watched regular on TV, I would have been much more nervous.

WWG: Talking of the Ras Al Khaimah Championship, that must have been pretty special to make your DP World Tour debut after such a great month?

VK-O: The Ras Al Khaimah Championship was an unforgettable experience. I was called on the Tuesday of tournament week while I was in school to tell me that I had received an invite from the Emirates Golf Federation to play. I really want to highlight that as it’s a great honour to represent the UAE and the EGF, so I’ll forever be thankful for that.

In terms of what I learned from the experience, there were a few things that stood out to me. The first was not having a rangefinder and having to use the course guide to get my distances rather than getting the distance straight to the pin.

WWG: Where would you like to be in your career in ten years’ time?

VK-O: Now that I’ve won the Junior Dubai Desert Classic, I want to win the actual Dubai Desert Classic within the next ten years to be able to say I’ve won both events – that’s a big goal for me. Being on Tour and receiving my first Major invite is a goal of mine as well. I want to work hard to achieve that, make my practice count and be as efficient as possible so I can have a higher chance of achieving that. For now, I’m currently in contact with some colleges in the States, who I’ve been emailing and having phone calls with. I’m in the recruitment process of trying to find the right fit for me. That’s where I want to be at the end of 2025.  The youngster made his DP World Tour debut in Ras Al

Khaimah

MASTER ONE OF THE HARDEST SHOTS IN GOLF

BY PETE COWEN, MASTER PGA PROFESSIONAL

Even though modern drivers are much more forgiving to hit, opting to use a driver off the deck is a very hard shot to play and you need to understand the correct technique, or you will more than likely end up hitting a high spinning cut, or more than likely top the ball. For this reason, most people opt for a strong lofted three wood, as it’s the easier shot to play, but a driver off the deck illustrates you understand the golf swing and it’s a good shot to have in your arsenal when the wild starts to blow.

In this article I will explain how people get it wrong and why understanding the low point is the key to mastering one of the hardest shots in golf.

OFF THE

- Nick Huby

Before you consider hitting a driver off the deck make sure you have enough loft. If you only have eight or nine degrees of loft you need to control the low point in your swing.

The low point is where you are presenting as much loft as possible at the back of the ball just before impact.

Driving forward in downswing and not rotating around the body,

Angle of attack too steep, making the low point ahead of the ball at impact

WHERE PEOPLE GO WRONG

Most players trying to hit a driver off the deck get too steep which means the low point is ahead of the ball at impact. Which is why you end up trapping the ball and hitting that ugly cut shot.

The body has rotated around the centre, shallowing the angle of attacked, enabling as much loft as possible to be presented to the ball prior to impact.

CONTROLLING THE LOW POINT

The first step is to control the centre of your body. Turning around the centre enables you to hit the low point just before the ball. This shallow angle of attack is very important and why you deliver the club early and collect it with your body turn..

N E W P R O V 1 ®

& P R O V 1 x

Outper f o rm with n ew P ro V 1 and P ro V1x , f e a t uring l o nger di s t an c e , m o re c o ns i s t en c y and unri valed c o n t ro l

WEDGEPLAY

with NIck Huby Head Instructor, Pete Academy

L“ast month I went to Nick Huby at the Pete Cowen Academy to address the spin issue I was having with my driver. After an hour of explaining the rectifying the various problems with Nick, I hit the course the following day with a spring in my step, knowing I had more control with the ball flight off the tee. Though this game gives with one hand takes away with the other. I was finding fairways for fun, but my wedge play from 80 yards in was diabolical. I was quickly back on the phone and booking in with Nick, as I understood the issue, but no idea how to quickly fix the problem that had taken the wind out of my fresh enthusiasm,”

-

Alex Gallemore

“Alex’s former issues with the driver are creating the same problems with a wedge. His wrists were too aggressively set for a short shot, allowing the shaft to travel too far and steep. He needs to match the left and right movement and not drag the handle forwards, as that effects the low point,”

- Nick Huby

WEDGEPLAY

CACK-HANDED

SPLIT Grip

Grip Grip

ONE HANDED

CHECK LIST

1. Get closer to the ball and stand the shaft up.

2. Keep the clubhead lower for longer in the back swing to prevent the aggressive wrist set.

3. Do NOT pull and drag the handle. This will make you late in the delivery, the face will be open, and you will strike it high on the ball.

4. You need to get the force of left and right hand balanced equally to correctly realign the shaft. To do this use the split grip, cack-handed or even lead arm only drills.

5. Split grip is my preferred way for Alex as it trains you to use left and right force equally.

6. Remember too much shaft lean will result in thin and inconsistent shots, as the low point is too far forward.

CONCLUSION

Like the driver off the deck tip with Pete, you also need to know where the low point is with your wedge, plus being able to match the left and right movement at impact. This will not just benefit your wedge play but your whole game.

BY JONATHAN CRADDOCK PGA PROFESSIONAL, Peter Cowen Academy

NELLY KORDA

SWING SEQUENCE

For those of you who already watch the LPGA you would have noticed how many of the players have such efficient movements and Nelly Korda’s is one of the very best in the world in this aspect.

I often recommend and say amateurs could learn a lot from watching the ladies tour as well as senior tour golfers. The ladies due to their brilliant swings and the senior tour demonstrates how patterns can be so different but still get the job done due to certain conditions or matching movements that are needed in order for a swing to to be repeated.

Korda hits 80 percent of greens and drives the ball 280 yards. She starts her swing in a perfectly athletic position with her weight over the balls of the feet. This allows her to push the ground creating a huge amount of speed.

Of course, it’s nice to see Rory swing with one of the fastest rotations in the game in terms of degrees per second but for many players, this is not achievable. Instead, we can all improve by moving better in relation to how our body moves naturally. This is why I recommend all of my golfers get assessed using a physical golf screen to improve their understanding of how their body reacts to certain movements when striking the ball.

Here, let’s take a look at Korda who really has a beautiful movement which is arguably one of the best in the world. Take note on how she does it below.

Note how her arms are very stable. The clubface is not being over rotated by the forearms. One might say they are extremely passive with the shoulder movement working with the body action to create this wide takeaway.

When trying to improve your motion, rather than think of changing the pattern you have, I recommend you start by understanding how to remove unnecessary movements. Balance is a key component of the golf swing as seen here.

Korda’s maintained her arm structure whilst pushing into the ground wonderfully. The weight of the golf club is naturally setting it onto the original shaft plane line. She’s lost a few inches of height and on average moves downward a few inches throughout her move prior to releasing the club.

This is a beautiful frame as we can see the counter rotation phase taking effect with both knees bent. Nelly has currently spiralled her lower half four to six inches in the opposite direction towards target. Notice how her hips have moved yet the upper body hasn’t begun to open.

Notice over the next two photos how she maintains the spine angle from her original starting point and does not change her angles. Following impact the right shoulder is lower than left. Many top golfers gain depth from their spine angle during this phase as oppose to standing up and losing their angles.

Notice how the left knee is lower than the right as she pushes into the ground. The club shaft is matching the shoulder angle, which is perpendicular to her original spine angle at address. This is a wonderful position to help her change direction with ease.

This is a continuation of the last frame to really hit home the point of the lower body moving first in transition phase. Her hips are opening perfectly here due to her excellent use of the ground.

Notice how her arms are still very structured, almost a mirror image of her backswing. No wonder she is extremely accurate and long. As quite often an efficient movement provides not only better dispersion but also more ball speed due to better striking of the golf ball.

She’s fully spiralled to the top of her backswing. Her back is facing the target, left arm fully extended, with her right and left elbows still very much working in opposition meaning they are still close together. Ninety nine percent of the time I see the elbows separating which is a sign of a poor body action.

The club shaft stays on her original plane line, contributing to one of the world’s finest swings. Most golfers I see have the shaft too vertical here, with the club head ahead of their hands rather than behind, as shown in the prior photo. This is one of the best delivery positions you’ll see.

Such a wonderfully balanced finish with her left side fully extended due to her use of the ground. She’s also moved back to her original height whilst maintaining her tilts. What I particularly notice is here club shaft position as it’s still on plane which is not by accident.

Photography: Getty Images

A100 YARDS AND IN

2018 RYDER CUP CAPTAIN THOMAS BJØRN

s I kid I used to fool around chipping greens, and I learnt different things which I took into my game throughout my professional career. I always had a wedge in my hands when I was younger and you just learn different things.

When I look at my career and see the golf courses I do well on, wedge game is a very big part of it.

Reflecting back at the best weeks I’ve had wedge wise, the couple of wins I had in Switzerland stand out as that’s where you’re at altitude and really need to control your ball flight; it’s so important. Those two wins stand out for me because of that.

What I tend to do when I practice hitting these shots from 100 yards is I get a towel and put it under both of my arms. It gives me something to feel and it helps to keep the arms connected with the body. I push my arms into my chest as I swing it through. That way I feel like my body is always moving. If I stop my body, I lose the towel and my hands will flick at the ball. That’s an inconsistent way to play.

From 100 yards and in, it’s about getting speed in your body and not using your arms and hands so much. Focusing on sternum rotation is key. When I get over the ball, I just swing only with my sternum, that way I can control my ball and also my distances.

DID YOU KNOW?

Bjørn is a 15-time DP World Tour winner having made 606 appearances on the European-based circuit to date. He’s slowly but surely closing on Miguel Ángel Jiménez’s record of 721.

Will he climb above the Spaniard in the coming years? It’s a tough ask given Bjørn’s exemption ended in 2023, but he has hopes to possibly get there.

“I enjoy being out here, I enjoy being with these young guys but everything comes to an end,” he said. “As much as I will still play a few events here and there, I certainly won’t play a full schedule going forward. They’re just simply too good.”

SHOT SHAPING

DP WORLD TOUR PRO MIKE LORENZO-VERA

Explaining how to shape shots is actually sometimes quite difficult for us pros. That’s because we have practiced certain shots, such as a fade, for so long it’s automatic and done on instinct. I think that’s a lesson in itself to any amateur reading this; practice your preferred shot shape repeatedly and stick to it.

However, the only thing I’m really thinking of when hitting a fade is where I’m bringing the shaft through impact. I’m really trying to cut the line and bring it into a fade position. I’m trying to keep my body over it and bring the shaft to the left, this puts slightly less distance on the ball but fades it more.

One drill to try is to put an alignment stick in the ground in front of you down the range, and just try to hit different shapes around the stick. You could even just imagine a tree down the fairway. Hit it out to the right side of the stick, but draw it back, or vica versa with a fade.

Us Tour professionals can hit it both ways, but we all have a preferred shot shape which is determined usually by our swing mechanics. Personally, my preferred shot shape is a fade.

DID YOU KNOW?

Lorenzo-Vera has played nearly 300 events on the DP World Tour, having risen from originally playing on the Alps Tour, one of Europe’s third tier development tours. Now, he’s a regular contender on the DP World Tour having finished 73rd in the Race to Dubai last year following three top 10 finishes.

The Frenchman’s career highlight so far include climbing to as high as 64th in the Official World Golf Ranking back in 2020, alongside a host of victories on various Tours around the globe, including a triumph on the Challenge Tour in 2007.

BY SIDDHI KAPOOR

GET INTO GOLF

Photography: Will Kent

ACADEMY COACH AT TOP GOLF DUBAI @SIDDHIIKAPOOR

TTOP POINTS AT TOP GOLF!

he aim of the game at Topgolf is to score as many points as possible, but how is that achieved? Well, it can really help if you hit the back net and get extra points on the board!

I’m going to break down some basic fundamentals here which can help propel you well on your way to beating your friends in front of that stunning Dubai skyline backdrop.

First of all, if you’re new to the game of golf, the driver is the longest club in the bag and designed to go the furthest out of the entire set. It’s also the club we’re going to need to use to get to the back net at Topgolf Dubai and score maximum points.

Step one is to tee the ball up and align the ball correctly in your stance. Standing just slightly wider than shoulder width apart with your feet, the ball should come just inside your left heel as displayed in these pictures. Don’t overlook this part, it’s essential.

Next up is your weight distribution at set up. If you’re a right-handed player, lean slightly onto your right side. In terms of ratios, 60 percent of your

weight should be on your right and 40 percent on your left. That’s a good ballpark to aim for to begin with. This should help you to hit the ball on the up, and gain maximum distance.

That brings me onto my next point about the importance of strike. You need to be hitting the centre of the clubface with power. A good set-up gives you the best chance of doing that, but really focus on hitting up on the ball and out the middle of the face. Some great golfers like to feel that they are sweeping the ball off the tee and into the air.

Now, hitting driver can be difficult, especially to begin with. You may see it curve excessively to the right, and you may even top a few – that’s normal. My advice is to just be realistic with your expectations, and remember that golf is a game to be enjoyed, especially at Topgolf Dubai. But if you really are keen to beat your friends next time you’re down here, book a lesson or class with me or the team at the Topgolf Dubai Academy and we’ll be happy to help you improve!

CALLAWAY AI SMOKE

WHY THE LAST PARADYM DRIVER WILL BE TOUGH TO BEAT THIS YEAR

Callaway’s 2023 Paradym driver put them back on track, as the previous models had started to lose ground against the competition, but last year’s model reset the high standard we come to expect from the manufacturer that brought us the Big Bertha. Their Paradym Triple Diamond head was the best performing driver we tested in 2023 in terms of carry and overall distance. Therefore, we couldn’t wait to see how the updated Paradym Ai Smoke compared. As you can probably guess from the name, artificial intelligence plays a big part in the new Ai Smoke range, with the driver’s new smart face being the main storyline. The newly designed face has been created using real player data and machine learning in order to create a variety of sweet spots across the face. Combined with adjustable perimeter weighting and a lighter, stronger carbon chassis, I was expecting the changes to focus on forgiveness and launch not just distance gains.

THE MODELS

There are four heads to choose from. Players with swing speeds sub 100mph will normally fit into the Ai Smoke Max, though players in that category looking to combat the

dreaded slice might be better suited to the Max D and the low spinning Triple Diamond for higher swing speeds. The Max Fast completes the line up and is designed for players that need a lighter club to raised their swing speed to boost overall distance.

THE LOOKS

Making a club standout isn’t all about performance. Brands need a marketing story to distinguish themselves from others, as a black 460cc driver can quickly look like every other driver. The Ai Smoke, as you can guess by the name, has gone with a smoke blue carbon urban camouflage look and I’m sure it might not be to everyone’s taste, but address I like how the flat carbon top line meets the gloss carbon crown. The only thing I would remove is the Ai Smoke branding that shouts at you from just behind the neck. Thankfully it’s not on the top of the crown, but it does remind me of my childhood when I use to put go fast stickers on my bike or even my first car.

THE FACE AND TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS

I’m sure you have seen the Ai Smoke advert and how Callaway is showcasing the increased yardages across the

face compared to the 2023 head. They claim that is down to micro deflections that are activated at impact. I’ve no idea what that means either. Just the AI software has been updated to make the face more efficient. Though I believe the advancements is due to the stiffer, lighter and stronger carbon chassis. By adding an internal titanium support, the chassis is 15% lighter and that has allowed the Callaway engineers to redistribute the weight in the head to improve both the forgiveness and launch.

PERFORMANCE TEST

Max Triple Diamond

Swing Speed (MPH): 105.2 105.4mph

Ball Speed (MPH): 154.3 152.8mph

Spin (RPM): 2,415 2,075

Carry (Yards): 262 264.2

Total (Yards) : 275 283

VERDICT

As expected, both were more stable at impact and dispersion was tighter than last year’s model and the Triple Diamond spun the least. The shock was the Max head. For players that have a sub 100mph swing speed, launch is critical and the Max delivers on that front, but the surprise was the efficient spin rate. With the head set at 10 degrees paired with a stock stiff shaft it was launching around 13 degrees with a spin rate not exceeding 2500rpm. Normally, I would expect that set up to see the ball balloon and stall in the air due to the spin climbing way above 3,000+ rpm. The Triple Diamond was the outright winner in terms of distance and remains the longest club I’ve tested to date. The dispersion was not as tight as the Max and to get the most out the club I need to be on my A game in terms of swing speed. The ball speed average was also greater on the Max, as the Triple Diamond is not as forgiving from strikes low on the face.

BY ALEX GALLEMORE

TITLEIST TOUR SOFT

How do they compare to the AVX?

Last month Titleist sent me their latest AVX ball along with a dozen Tour Soft. I’ve always played ProV1 and more recently the AVX to manage my spin better, but I’ve never put another Titleist ball in play. I’ve tested them on ranges to understand the tech behind them but never played a full round with one.

We all want more distance off the tee and control around the greens, hence why I’ve moved over to the AVX. Another characteristic I opt for is soft feel, especially with my irons and why I keep on coming back to the AVX or ProV1.

Last month I decided to play a round with the AVX and Tour Soft balls and make a note of the differences, not just in terms of performance but most importantly my score.

DISTANCE

Off the tee the Tour Soft is a few yards longer and you can visibly see it launches lower but runs out slightly further. My driver is set up at 9 degrees for the AVX and ideally, I would have increased the loft a degree for the Tour Soft. I even preferred the slightly firmer feel compared to the AVX.

Off the fairway I would play the Tour Soft from

the same spot and the same club as the AVX to give a true feeling of distance control. I could have seen the numbers on a TrackMan but on course you get a better visual feel. The True Soft was longer, not quiet half a club, but the slightly lower spin gave it a stronger flight. Though like the tee shots, it also ran out more than the AVX. There was noticeable grip with the eight iron down to the wedge but not the same level of control compared to the AVX.

Around the greens the spin control was even more noticeable. The AVX would check and release slightly, where the Tour Soft would grip but roll out further.

With the putter both were hard to separate, as I was starting to become accustomed to the slightly firmer feel of the Tour Soft.

RESULT

There were a lot of mulligans during the test round, as my golfing palate was becoming confused. The only way was play a round with each ball on their own. Thankfully, the conditions were consistent for both days and the result shocked me. The AXV carded a nine over par round, while the Tour Soft managed to take the

win with a 6 over par round. The Tour Soft was NOT three shots better and I did hole more putts during the second round, but the slight yardage gain off the tee meant I was playing approaches with a club less on a number of occasions.

VERDICT

The perfect ball would be a Tour Soft for tee shots and long to mid irons, merged with a ProV1 for short game and putting. That is why I’m staying with the AVX but for soft windy or windy conditions a sleeve of Tour Soft’s will be in the bag.

SHOT SCOPE PROZR

For golfers that drop more than shots

I broke my range finder last summer after a friend ran over it in a golf cart. It’s only fair, that since then I’ve been sharing his when we play. We joked at the time and said the next range finder I buy needs to be tank proof. Considering it always fell out of the holder, as I never put the top on correctly, or slid around the buggy during a round, he might have a point.

I think Shot Scope’s R&D team might have been behind us that day, as I’ve just received their latest product release announcing their first metal hardshell range finder.

Their new PRO ZR is equipped with a DuraShield Hardshell , a robust and durable metal casing designed for heavy handed and clumsy golfers like myself. It’s packed with their advanced tech, such as Rapid-fire detection and an enhanced Target-lock vibration.

“The addition of the PRO ZR to our line-up of products is very exciting for us and we’re pleased to be able to offer golfers another option to advance their game. The rangefinder

is a game-changing design for us, with the DuraShield Hardshell adding an extra layer of confidence in the durability and feel of the product,” comments David Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Shot Scope.

ON THE MOVE

They have also solved my issue of safe storage during a round with a built-in buggy magnet. I just need to remember at the end of the round it will still be attached to the buggy.

Shot Scope’s ultra-clear LCD display, combined with Red / Black dual optics ensures you can read measurements regardless of the time of day, over a distance of 1500 yards, in case you wonder how far the drinks cart is away.

In addition PRO ZR owners instantly gain access to the free mobile app, where you can access aerial GPS maps of any course in the world. The PRO ZR eliminates any guess work through the combination of pinpoint laser accuracy and GPS distances.

KEY FEATURES

l DuraShield Hardshell

l Built-in buggy magnet

l Adaptive slope technology

l Ultra clear LCD display

l Rapid-fire detection

- 1,500 yards range

- Red/Black dual optics

- GPS aerial maps

DUTCHDelights

BERNARDUS GOLF STAR ATTRACTION

Bernardus Golf, home to last year’s Dutch Open and future host of the 2026 Solheim Cup, promises an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts. Crafted by renowned American architect Kyle Phillips, whose portfolio includes iconic courses like Kingsbarns and Yas Links, Bernardus offers an 18-hole championship layout designed to challenge and inspire players of all levels.

Situated in the southern Netherlands, this track embodies the essence of heathland golf, seamlessly blending bunkers and water hazards amidst dunes and gorse. Its picturesque setting fosters tranquility, complemented by top-notch amenities including a brilliant driving range, a well-kept short-game area, and superb putting greens.

THE NETHERLANDS BOASTS A VIBRANT GOLF SCENE FOR ALL, CATERING TO PLAYERS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS AMIDST ITS PICTURESQUE LANDSCAPES. WITH OVER 250 COURSES SCATTERED ACROSS THE COUNTRY, ENTHUSIASTS HAVE AMPLE OPPORTUNITIES TO INDULGE IN THEIR PASSION FOR THE SPORT. FROM COASTAL LINKS TRACKS TO INLAND GEMS, EACH VENUE OFFERS ITS OWN UNIQUE CHALLENGES AND CHARMS. YOU’RE SURE TO FIND COURSES YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH HERE. WE’VE HIGHLIGHTED A FEW THAT COULD BE WORTH A TRY IF YOU’RE OVER IN THAT PART OF THE WORLD.

Operated under the innovative “member for a day” concept, Bernardus grants visitors access to a luxurious array of facilities, from dining and tennis courts to swimming pools and saunas. The course’s layout, stretching across twice as much longitude as latitude, is divided into three distinct sections. This has been created due to heavy tree lines and canals that divide the land

up, with each one of these sections offering varying unique challenges and scenic beauty.

With regards to the course itself, the front nine captivates with sandy heathland and strategic water features. The back nine, though less inspiring, maintains the course’s overall allure. Despite its relatively modest terrain, Bernardus has earned acclaim as a premier tournament

venue, hosting prestigious events in the past and more to come in the future.

Phillips’ masterful design maximises the course’s potential, earning Bernardus a place among the Netherlands’ top golf destinations and marking it as one of the century’s finest additions to the golfing landscape. This place offers an unparalleled golfing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Photography: Getty Images

THE DUTCH HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The Dutch golf course, a Colin Montgomerie Signature Design in collaboration with European Golf Design, was conceived with a dual purpose: to create a premier members’ course while meeting the rigorous standards necessary for hosting major professional tournaments. This objective has undeniably been fulfilled, as evidenced by The Dutch playing host to the country’s national open between 2016 and 2018.

Since its inauguration in May 2011, The Dutch has consistently delivered world-class amenities, including its 18-hole inland links-style course, clubhouse, practice facilities, and unparalleled member services.

Nestled in the rustic setting of Doornspijk within the municipality of Lingewaal, the course boasts links-style bunkers, intricately contoured

greens, and numerous water features such as lakes and burns.

However, the development of The Dutch was not without its challenges. Situated on flat land several meters below sea level, with soil consisting of silt, clay, and peat, the site posed significant drainage and weight-bearing obstacles. Innovative solutions were employed, including a lightweight foundation of air-filled concrete beneath the greens and polystyrene blocks within mounds to alleviate pressure on the subsoil. Additional soil was imported to elevate low-lying areas, resulting in a meticulously crafted course that epitomises the envisioned links-style layout.

Complementing the exceptional golfing experience is The Dutch’s charming clubhouse, featuring five elegantly appointed meeting rooms, locker facilities with bar and sauna services, a refined whisky and cigar room, a brasserie, and a restaurant. Conveniently located in the heart of the Netherlands, The Dutch offers easy access to the country’s major cities and airports, enhancing its allure as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

UTRECHT GOLF CLUB DE PAN

Established in 1894 and redesigned by Harry S. Colt in 1929, this is another premier golf destination in the Netherlands. Nestled within a forested landscape, the course offers a quintessential Dutch experience with its thatch-roof clubhouse and picturesque scenery. Notable features include the meeting point of the fourth and eighth greens with the fifth and ninth tees, offering expansive views. The standout sixth hole elevates the course’s reputation, with the back nine particularly acclaimed, cementing Utrecht de Pan’s status as a top-ranked golf course, often regarded among the world’s best.

HAGUE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Some regard this as the most exciting links golfing destination on mainland Europe. The undulating layout challenges golfers with uneven lies, reminiscent of British links. This club is another to host the Dutch Open multiple times, and it reemerged in professional golf with the 2010 Van Lanschot Senior Open. Frank Pont’s extensive renovations since 2008, including new greens and bunkers, ensure its enduring allure.

Favourite course you’ve ever played?

I’ve played better courses but my favourite to play is Silkeborg Ry Golf Club back in Denmark

Best moment of your career so far?

Winning at home last year

Biggest influence on your career?

My brother, Nicolai

Win the Masters or win the Open?

Got to be careful here… I’m going to go the Masters

Favourite childhood TV show?

Home Alone

DID YOU KNOW?

QUICK NINE Rasmus Højgaard

FOUR-TIME DP WORLD TOUR WINNER

If you weren’t a golfer, what would you be? A pilot

Messi or Ronaldo? Ronaldo

Do you eat or drink soup? That’s a weird one, I don’t know!

If you could have one super power, what would it be?

Teleportation

2024 STATS

Correct As Of March 1

Driving Distance - 301 Yards

Driving Accuracy - 47%

Greens In Regulation - 65%

Avg. Putts Per Round - 29

Stroke Average - 70.95

Photography: Getty Images

Højgaard was the first player born in the 2000s to win on the DP World Tour. He won in only his fifth Tour start and became the third youngest winner in Tour history (18 years, 271 days), behind Matteo Manassero (17 years, 188 days) and Danny Lee (18 years, 213 days).