Tiger Woods will return to Dubai for the third successive year for the Dubai Desert Classic at the Emirates Golf Club from January 29 to February 3, 2008.
A media communication on Monday from the organisers said the World's No. 1 player, who won the title in Dubai in 2006 and finished third last year, has confirmed his participation in the event though he is still finalising his schedule for 2008.
Woods is also working with his design company on developing a 7,800-yard, par-72 course named Al Ruwaya in Dubailand.
Woods, who first appeared in the Desert Classic in 2001, finished tied third in the 2007 edition of the European Tour event, two shots adrift off eventual winner Henrik Stenson.
Arguably the most remarkable golfer of the modern era, Woods had his moments, but poor putting blew his chances. "Well, that's one of the worst putting weeks I have had in a long time... very frustrating," said Woods who, for a change, wore sunglasses during the tournament.
Tiger is looking forward to getting to Dubai and playing in what he called "a fantastic event".
"I always enjoy visiting Dubai - it's an extremely hospitable place where the people and the tournament organisers treat the players so well," he said.
"The level of competition is always extremely high; so I know I'll have to play my best golf. It's a great venue, the course is always in immaculate condition and the weather reminds me of back home in Florida," said Woods who has also been amazed by the progress of Dubai.
{{/usCountry}}"The level of competition is always extremely high; so I know I'll have to play my best golf. It's a great venue, the course is always in immaculate condition and the weather reminds me of back home in Florida," said Woods who has also been amazed by the progress of Dubai.
{{/usCountry}}"From the time I first came to play here in 2001, I wanted to be a part of this amazing vision," Woods had commented after unveiling plans for Al Ruwaya course in The Tiger Woods Dubai.
'Golf in Dubai', the promoters and organisers of the Dubai Desert Classic, were equally delighted to welcome Woods back. "We are naturally delighted and proud that Tiger Woods has agreed to join us for the 2008 Dubai Desert Classic," said Mohamed Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO.
"Having the world's greatest golfer play in your event is something many tournament organisers dream of; so for us to be able to welcome him to the Majlis Course for the fifth time in eight years is a major boost for golf in the Middle East, especially Dubai."