2025 Hero Dubai Desert Classic Set to Begin

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic kicks off the 2025 DP World Tour season at Emirates Golf Club, featuring a notable field that includes defending champion Rory McIlroy, who aims for a historic fifth title. McIlroy, along with other top-ranked players like Jon Rahm and Tommy Fleetwood, will compete for a total purse of $9 million, with the champion receiving $1.53 million. The tournament also marks a renewal of tensions between McIlroy and LIV Golf member Patrick Reed, as they meet again following a controversial incident two years prior. Despite past conflicts, the event showcases a blend of talent from both the DP World Tour and LIV Golf, with players vying for positions in the Ryder Cup. This year's event is particularly significant as it is the first Rolex Series tournament of the year, promising increased stakes and high competition. The tournament runs from January 16-19, featuring a 126-player field in this prestigious opener of the International Swing.