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The Spaniard Adrian Otaegui, five times winner on the DP World Tour, has decided to represent the United Arab Emirates with the objective of competing in the next Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 under his new banner.
Thunderclap in the world of Golf. Adrian Otaegui will no longer represent his native country, Spain, but the one in which he has lived for 13 years now, the United Arab Emirates. The announcement was made official by the United Arab Emirates Olympic Committee (UAE) and Emirates Golf Federation (EGF).
The 32-year-old Basque player, who trains regularly at Olivier Léglisenear Arcangues (64), aims to participate in 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
« UAE is my home, I love its culture and how they have been one of the most innovative countries over the last 50 yearsexplains the one who also did some freelance work in 2022 on the LIFE Golf. My motivation is to represent the UAE around the world and bring home an Olympic medal for this incredible country. »
No more chance of playing the Ryder Cup…
Vice President of the UAE Golf Federation, General Abdullah Alhashmibelieves for his part that Otaegui's decision will be beneficial to achieve this objective. “ This is an incredible achievement not only for Adrian but also for UAE golf. We will continue to develop and push our country to the highest levels across the world. Adrian has been a long-time ambassador for golf in the UAE and his integrity on and off the golf course is what we want our programs and national players to look like. »
Born in San Sebastian, Adrien Otaegui turned professional in 2011. In 2022, he won theAndalucia Masters on one of the most famous courses in Spain, Valderramawith a record score of -19 after four rounds. His latest success on the DP World Tour dates back to last May Volvo China Open before finishing 34th in the 2024 Race.
This decision to play under the flag of the United Arab Emirates, however, annihilates any chance for him of representing the European team of Ryder Cup.
Photo : Warren Little/Getty Images
