The 2024 $500,000 HSBC India Legends Championship, co-sanctioned by the PGTI, has concluded, giving me the opportunity to reflect on my role as the Tournament Host for a Legends Tour event. This experience has been immensely enjoyable and marks my first time hosting an event of such scale. The standard golf tours are now outstanding, focusing on birdies and featuring top players. However, with most players supported by internal teams including golf coaches, putting experts, and health and wellness coaches, in addition to their management teams, I'm thankful I played in my era—it seemed more enjoyable. I don't see many distinctive personalities in today's game, or rather, players aren't encouraged to be unique. Surely, professional golf shouldn't solely be about financial gain!
We're constantly reminded that sports need to be entertaining. The Legends Tour model occupies a unique niche. It emphasizes interaction with professionals—both on and off the golf course—involving amateur players, sponsors, fans, children, and more, including playing on the same course as the pros during the tournament. Socially, this is unparalleled in golf, with continued engagement at various functions. Being within the ropes and witnessing their performance up close is an experience like no other. The tour includes Major winners, Ryder Cup players, and more.
Is the Middle East prepared for the Legends Tour's return? I believe so. The region hosts numerous professional tournaments, including the DP World Tour Majors, LIV Golf, Rolex Series events, the Asian Tour, Challenge Tour, Clutch Pro Tour, and some of the leading amateur events for both men and women globally. With a modest investment, I'm confident our Legends Tour can maintain sponsor engagement and satisfaction, fostering interaction with golfers who are also key partners and customers, possibly future clients. TV highlights and robust media coverage from sources like Khaleej Times and other UAE and regional platforms will only enhance interest.
I'm now heading to Japan to compete on the Japan Senior Tour before returning to the Legends Tour in Germany for the Winstongolf Senior Open in late September. The Legends Tour is set to travel to France next week, and I wish all my fellow pros safe travels and the best for another successful week. Last week, we had 67 ambassadors playing at Jaypee Greens, promoting golf in India and showcasing India globally. The value of this cannot be quantified, but it's certainly significant. For all details about the Legends Tour, visit: www.Legendstour.com
Jeev Milkha Singh, a recipient of the Dubai Golden Visa, is 52 years old and the first Indian player to join the DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour) in 1998, participating in the Masters. He boasts 20 worldwide professional wins.
