The 2026 DP World Tour season commences this weekend with a highly anticipated showdown in the desert, as the Dubai Invitational returns to the Dubai Creek Resort.
Fleetwood and McIlroy Set for Title Duel
All eyes will be on the marquee pairing of Tommy Fleetwood and Rory McIlroy. Fleetwood enters as the defending champion, having clinched the inaugural 2024 title with a dramatic birdie-birdie finish to edge out McIlroy and Thriston Lawrence. McIlroy, who led by one shot heading into the final round that year, is hungry for redemption after two critical errors cost him the trophy.
"First week back out, I think you're going to expect some of those sloppy mistakes, and unfortunately for me, those mistakes came at the wrong time today," McIlroy reflected after his 2024 defeat, which included a three-putt bogey on the 14th and a tee shot into the water on the 18th.
Buoyed by his historic Masters victory in April 2025, which completed the career Grand Slam, McIlroy will be determined to start his new season by turning the tables on his Ryder Cup teammate.
What's on the Line at Dubai Creek?
The tournament features a select field of 60 professionals and 60 amateurs, with no cut, competing for a share of a £2 million prize fund. The champion will pocket a top prize of £350,000, with the runner-up earning over £200,000. Even the golfer finishing in last place is guaranteed to take home just under £6,000.
"I'm delighted to be defending my Dubai Invitational title in front of family and friends here in Dubai," said Fleetwood ahead of the event. "Winning the first edition was a really special moment for me... I can't wait to start the new year back at Dubai Creek Resort."
The Tournament's Unforgettable Record
While the focus is on the elite competition at the top, the Dubai Invitational also holds a less coveted record from its 2023 edition. Then 54-year-old American Ken Weyand, who received an invitation from basketball icon Michael Jordan, recorded a staggering score of 53-over-par.
Weyand, general manager of a Florida golf club owned by Jordan, finished a remarkable 72 shots behind the winner after rounds of 87, 82, 82, and 86 for a 337 total. His performance, which included two birdies but also 25 bogeys and multiple higher scores, sparked debate about invitational criteria.
English professional Eddie Pepperell voiced his frustration at the time, stating: "Limited man field, and old Ken Weyand gets an invite and then does this. I don't care if he's Ken from Barbie, it shouldn't happen."
As the 2026 edition gets underway, the stage is set for a compelling blend of world-class rivalry and the unique, inclusive format that defines this early-season event on the DP World Tour calendar.
