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Golf in Dubai appoint Bjorn as ambassador

The Dane credited the Desert Classic, dubbed as the Major of the Middle East, for putting the Emirate on the golfing map.

Dubai — Thomas Bjorn, one of golf’s most influential players, has been appointed as a global ambassador of Golf in Dubai as part of an ambitious drive to boost the Emirate’s brand visibility on the global stage.

Affectionately referred to as ‘The Great Dane,’ Bjorn enjoys strong links with Dubai, having spent most of the European winter in the city that is home to world-class events like the Omega Dubai Desert Classic and the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters

“The hub of global commerce, a top tourism destination and a shopping paradise, Dubai has become the ‘golfing hotbed’ of the region, if not the world,” said the 44-year-old veteran, who is also the chairman of the European Tour players committee.

“It’s a tribute to the country’s inspiring leadership that, despite difficult times, they have been able to develop a sporting tradition that remains at the heart of today’s vibrant leisure industry,” said Bjorn will be wearing Golf in Dubai and Golf Citizen logos on his shirts on his tournament days.

The Dane credited the Desert Classic, dubbed as the Major of the Middle East, for putting the Emirate on the golfing map, saying: “It exudes a culture of excellence and a brand name that appeals to all in the golfing fraternity. I feel proud and privileged to be part of the Golf in Dubai family. They can always count on senior pros, like me, for spreading the message of Dubai,” said Bjorn, who defeated Tiger Woods when he was at his peak to win the 2001 Desert Classic title on 22-under par total of 226, a record he now jointly shares with Scotland’s Stephen Gallacher.

Bjorn, who boasts 21 titles worldwide, including 15 on the European Tour, was equally upbeat about the MENA Golf Tour.

“As more leading events come to the region, bringing stiffer competition, the knock-on effect has been a rapid improvement in the quality of players,” he said.