Matthew Fitzpatrick will make his professional debut in Ireland this weekend having agreed to become golf in DUBAi’s newest brand ambassador.
The Omega Dubai Desert Classic organisers have moved quickly to sign up the 19-year-old, who is one of the hottest prospects in the game.
Fitzpatrick became the first person since legendary Bobby Jones more than 80 years ago to win top amateur honours at both the Open and US Open championships, having finished tied-48th overall at Pinehurst last weekend.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, hailed the partnership as a milestone in the long and rich history between his company and the European Tour.
“We feel it is vitally important to invest in and support players on the European Tour because they are its lifeblood past, present and future,” he said.
“We want to give young people the opportunity to be the best and we see Matt as somebody who will not only fulfil his massive potential, but also demonstrate the quality of character, richness of spirit and strength of self-belief which 'golf in DUBAi holds so dear.”
The Englishman joins fellow ambassadors Laura Davies, Mark O’Meara, Jeev Milkha Singh, Stephen Gallacher, Zane Scotland and renowned coach Pete Cowen at the helm of an ambitious ‘golf in DUBAi’ campaign.
Buamaim outlined why he believes the young Yorkshireman and Dubai are a perfect fit.
“Matt is emblematic of the city in that he is young, dynamic and willing to undertake great challenges as he pits himself against the best in the world,” he added.
“We feel we have begun a relationship which will be of great benefit to all in general and golf in particular.”
Fitzpatrick, who hit a final round 69 to finish 11-over par for the US Open at Pinehurst, was equally enthusiastic about becoming a golf in DUBAi ambassador.
“To have the backing of one of golf’s most prestigious companies is an ideal start for me,” said Fitzpatrick.
“Dubai is home to some of the most impressive golf facilities in the world and has made a massive impact on European golf in recent years.
“I am proud to represent golf in DUBAi and hope to repay their faith in me with many strong performances over the coming season and beyond.”
