American golfer Patrick Reed secured a victory at the Dubai Desert Classic, claiming a prize of $1.5 million and marking his 12th international title. Reed’s triumph at the Emirates Golf Club solidified his position heading into the upcoming LIV Golf season, which begins on February 4, 2024, in Saudi Arabia.
Reed, 35, approached the final round with a four-shot lead over Spain’s David Puig. Despite starting conservatively, Reed regained control of the match with a birdie on the par-five 13th hole, while Puig slipped further back after incurring a two-shot penalty for grounding his club in a bunker on the 18th. Reed finished with a total score of 14-under 274.
“I always say, win early and that will take care of it,” Reed remarked, addressing the fines imposed by the European tour that LIV Golf no longer covers for its players. He indicated that he is in negotiations for a new contract with LIV, suggesting that an agreement may already be in place.
Puig’s final score of 75 dropped him to a tie for seventh place, while Andy Sullivan from England secured second place with a score of 71. French golfer Julien Guerrier followed closely, finishing third at 13-under after a round of 69.
Notably, Rory McIlroy struggled throughout the tournament, finishing with a score of 73 in the final round and placing tied for 33rd. This marks his first finish outside the top 30 since missing the cut at the Canadian Open in June 2023.
Reed’s victory at the Dubai Desert Classic not only affirms his skills on the course but also nearly guarantees his exemption from all four major tournaments scheduled for this year. “It’s always nice to lock up the majors,” he stated after his win.
The lone Australian competitor, David Micheluzzi, ended the tournament tied for 49th after a final round of 72, finishing at one-over par. Reed’s performance has generated excitement as he transitions into the next phase of his career with LIV Golf.
As the world of golf looks forward to the upcoming season, Reed’s success in Dubai reinforces his status as a formidable player on both the European and LIV circuits.
