The 2024 PIF Saudi International, set to take place at Riyadh Golf Club from December 4-7, is making history with a record number of Saudi Arabian golfers participating. For the first time, four local players from the Kingdom will compete in the prestigious event, marking a significant milestone for Saudi golf.
The players representing Saudi Arabia at the event will be Othman Almulla, Faisal Salhab, Saud Al-Sharif, and Khalid Walid. In addition, Shergo Al-Kurdi, a Golf Saudi ambassador born in the UK and representing Jordan internationally, will also take part. This marks an exciting step forward for Saudi golf on the global stage, as these players will join an impressive lineup of international stars.
The Players: A Historic Line-up for Saudi Golf
- Othman Almulla: Known as Saudi Arabia’s first professional golfer, Almulla has been a trailblazer for the sport in the Kingdom. Before turning professional in 2019, he made history by becoming the first Saudi golfer to win the Qatar Open and to qualify for major professional tournaments such as the Dubai Desert Classic and the Qatar Masters in the late 2000s. Almulla is proud to represent Saudi Arabia at the Saudi International, reflecting on the growth of the sport in the Kingdom. “It’s an honour to be part of this milestone,” said Almulla. “The PIF Saudi International is a testament to the incredible progress golf has made in the Kingdom and the bright future ahead.”
- Faisal Salhab: A rising star in Saudi golf, Salhab turned professional in 2023 and has since represented the Kingdom at various international tournaments, including the Pan Arab Golf Championships. His participation in the Saudi International further reflects the increasing presence of local talent in the sport.
- Saud Al-Sharif: Also a Golf Saudi ambassador, Al-Sharif has been an integral part of the efforts to promote golf in Saudi Arabia. Like Almulla, he is part of the team of ambassadors who work to elevate the game in the Kingdom.
- Khalid Walid: Another important player in this historic lineup, Walid joins his compatriots in this ground-breaking event.
These four Saudi players will compete alongside some of the biggest names in world golf, including Bubba Watson, Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Tyrrell Hatton, Charl Schwartzel, and Louis Oosthuizen. The inclusion of these local talents reflects the ambitious goals set by Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global hub for golf.
Saudi Vision 2030: Golf’s Growing Influence in the Kingdom
The increased participation of Saudi golfers at international events such as the PIF Saudi International aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, which include growing the sports sector and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global destination for golf. The strategic push to develop golf in the Kingdom has been significantly supported by Golf Saudi, a body created to drive the sport’s growth, with initiatives aimed at increasing participation, developing world-class golf facilities, and attracting international events to the country.
The participation of local players in this high-profile event is a testament to the strides Saudi Arabia has made in growing the game of golf, nurturing homegrown talent, and creating a platform for golfers to compete on the global stage. With more Saudi players making waves internationally, the Kingdom is well on its way to becoming a key player in the world of golf.
A Strong Future for Golf in Saudi Arabia
The 2024 Saudi International is not just a significant event for the players involved but also for the future of golf in Saudi Arabia. By fostering homegrown talent, Saudi Arabia aims to continue developing its presence on the world golfing map, providing young golfers with the inspiration and resources needed to excel in the sport. Othman Almulla, as a trailblazer and ambassador for the game, has been a key figure in inspiring the next generation of Saudi golfers, and with the support of Golf Saudi, the Kingdom is poised to see even more local players rise to prominence in the years to come.
The 2024 event will serve as another landmark in Saudi Arabia’s journey to becoming a global golf destination, with local players making their mark alongside the biggest names in the sport.
Event Dates: December 4-7, 2024
Location: Riyadh Golf Club, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
A Turning Point for Saudi Golf
With the historic participation of four local Saudi players at the 2024 Saudi International, this year’s event marks a defining moment for Saudi golf. The growth of the sport in the Kingdom is not just about elite competition but also about inspiring future generations to take up the game and pursue it professionally. The commitment to Vision 2030’s goals for sport development, paired with the local talent emerging on the global stage, sets the stage for Saudi Arabia to become a leading force in the world of golf.
