The UAE golf team, spearheaded by National Coach Faycel Serghini, is set to make a significant impact at the 30th Nomura Cup, which commences on Tuesday at Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong in Vietnam. The team comprises seasoned players Ahmad Skaik, Jonathan Selvaraj, and Sam Mullane, who bring substantial international experience to the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF).
The Nomura Cup, recognized as the APGC Team Championship, is a distinguished biennial amateur golf tournament for men, initially held in 1963. The 2024 edition will feature 19 countries competing over four days of stroke play, with the top two daily scores contributing to the team's total. An individual champion will also be determined.
Accompanying the team is EGF Secretary-General Khalid Mubarak Al Shamsi, who remarked: “This is potentially one of the strongest teams we've ever fielded for the Nomura Cup. These players are well-prepared, and we’re eager to see how we measure up against the APGC's elite teams.” Participating countries include Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, Guam, Hong Kong (China), India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, the UAE, and host nation Vietnam. For live scoring updates, visit: Sgolf Live Score.
Historically, the competition has been dominated by powerhouses like Australia, with 10 titles, and Japan, with seven. However, the UAE team is keen to prove their worth on this prestigious stage. Team member Mullane shared with Khaleej Times, “I’m playing quite well at the moment and have been focusing on my irons, so we’ll see how it goes this week. I’ve never played in Vietnam before, so I’m looking forward to the experience. After the Nomura Cup, my schedule includes the UAE Cup in Al Ain, the King Hamad Trophy in Bahrain, the Dubai Hills Men’s Open, the Pan Arab Men’s Championship at Al Zorah Golf Club, and any other events that come up in the next few weeks. My last round was a five-under par, bogey-free round at the Jumeirah Golf Estates Monthly Medal, so my confidence is high.”
This year, the Nomura Cup will be contested at the Ninperal Golf Hai Phong – Marsh Course. Measuring 7,508 yards and par 72, the Marsh Course is renowned for its challenging marshy terrain. The final six holes include five with water hazards, making the finish a true test of skill.
