Three-time major winner Brooks Koepka will play in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship presented by EGA early in 2019.
American Koepka will be looking to stamp his authority at the 14th edition of the award-winning event, which takes place from January 16-19 at Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
Following an exceptional 2018, during which he became a double major champion, the 28-year-old Florida native battled for golf’s world number one status and was recognised as the PGA Tour Player of the Year.
Blocking his path to victory is the event’s current reigning champion, back-to-back winner Tommy Fleetwood, and Koepka’s USA Ryder Cup teammate, 19-time winner on the PGA Tour, Dustin Johnson.
Both Fleetwood and Johnson confirmed their return to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, first staged in 2006, last month, reinforcing the elite nature of the tournament’s new Rolex Series status.
Reigning US Open and PGA Championship winner Koepka said: “I’m very excited to be taking part in this tournament again after such a long time away.
Tommy Fleetwood defended his title in Abu Dhabi at the start of 2018.
“I’ve been determined to include it in my schedule as I keep hearing from DJ, Rickie (Fowler), Jordan (Spieth) and all the American guys what a great time they’ve had in Abu Dhabi.
“I actually remember my last visit really well as it is undoubtedly one of the biggest and best events on the European Tour’s schedule. It always gathers an unbelievable field and the whole set up of the event is amazing along with the perfect weather conditions.
“I wasn’t surprised at all to hear it had been awarded Rolex Series status and I can’t wait to return in January.
“Last time I played in 2014, I was ranked 93rd in the world, so a lot has happened since that time. I’m looking forward to returning and hopefully adding my name to the impressive list of champions.”
Now part of the prestigious Rolex Series, the tournament now boasts a prize fund of $7million and is one of the premium tournaments on the European Tour.
HE Aref Al Awani, general secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “Brooks Koepka has continued to battle it out for world number one this season and his participation in our award-winning championship reinforces its status as the premier golf event in the region.
“This announcement again underlines our success in creating a spectacular sporting experience for both players and fans at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship presented by EGA.
“We are committed to developing Abu Dhabi into a global capital of world sport so for a double 2018 major winner to play in one of our set-piece tournaments only emphasises our reputation for hosting the world’s best sporting events.”
Tickets for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship can be purchased by visiting https://www.ticketmaster.ae/artist/abu-dhabi-hsbc-championship-presented-by-ega-tickets.
