At just 15 years old, Sara Ali is already making a significant impact in the world of golf. The young Emirati girl recently led the UAE team to victory at the Pan Arab Golf Championships in Tunisia, a triumph she cherishes deeply, not just for herself but for her nation. “I am incredibly proud to represent my country, the UAE, and demonstrate what Emirati girls are capable of,” she says, her face lighting up with a smile. “This win is a testament to my country, and it also reflects my ongoing improvement in the game.” For Sara, golf is more than just perfecting her shots—it’s a testament to her dedication and mental fortitude, qualities that shone brightly in the lead-up to the recent Pan Arab Golf Championships.
“In the weeks before the tournament, I focused intensely on enhancing my putting, particularly the rhythm of my putts,” she explains. “I also worked on refining my backswing, which required significant attention. Scoring 18 birdies over three days is proof that my hard work has indeed paid off.” One of Sara’s most cherished accomplishments was partnering with Aasiya Saleem and Anca Mateiu to help the UAE Under-16 girls’ team secure their title in Tunisia. This victory, she believes, marks a pivotal moment for women’s golf in the region.
“The synergy we had as a team was remarkable,” she notes. “Even though we were competing individually, we motivated each other to perform well for the team’s success. Winning gold for the UAE is a monumental achievement. It sends a powerful message to the world, and especially to other Arab countries, that we have the potential to excel.” Despite her youth, Sara envisions a bright future for golf in the UAE, particularly for women and girls, and hopes that golf clubs in the UAE will take proactive steps to encourage more participation.
“I would love to see more girls and women taking part in the sport. The UAE boasts some of the finest golf courses in the world, yet not everyone has access to them,” she observes. “I believe clubs should create more avenues for kids and women to learn and play golf.” Currently, Sara is pursuing her golfing ambitions on a scholarship in the USA, a move she credits with significantly advancing her skills as a golfer.
“The training here is rigorous, and it’s not only improving my physical game but also strengthening my mental approach,” she shares. “The support from ADEK and the Emirates Golf Federation has been invaluable, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to fostering young talent.” Sara’s aspirations are lofty, with her sights set on securing a win on the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour, a platform that not only prepares players for collegiate golf but also equips them with lifelong skills. Additionally, she is aiming for a top-10 finish in an international competition, a milestone that would further solidify her burgeoning career.
But her ultimate dream? To represent her country on the global stage and achieve professional status on the LPGA tour. While she acknowledges her parents as her staunchest supporters, always cheering her on regardless of her performance, it’s evident that Sara’s own determination and love for the game are the driving forces behind her success.
“I’ve been focusing heavily on the mental aspects of the game because I believe a strong mindset leads to better scores,” she asserts. “With each victory, I’m reminded that I’m one step closer to my goal of becoming a successful professional golfer on the LPGA, and I’m thrilled about the journey ahead.” In Sara Ali, the UAE has a shining star—a young woman who exemplifies that with dedication, passion, and the right support, the sky's the limit.
