Michael Campbell to make Qatar debut

The list of golfing household names queuing up to compete in the booming Commercialbank Qatar Masters has been joined by former US Open champion Michael Campbell who will star in the $2.2 million tournament from January 25-28.

The 2005 US Open winner joins fellow Doha debutants Retief Goosen, Sergio Garcia, Chris DiMarco and Stuart Appleby in joining former Commercialbank Qatar Masters champion Ernie Els at the sharp end a 120-man field that is the strongest in the event’s 10-year-history.

“We’ve got Major winners in our line-up in the shape of Ernie, Retief and now Michael, which is something both the tournament and the state of Qatar should be very proud of,” said Commercialbank of Qatar Group CEO Andrew Stevens.

“A decade ago, few people even knew golf was played in Qatar – today we have some of the biggest names in the game coming to our shores and that’s something to celebrate.”

One of the most popular players in golf, Campbell’s return to the top of the leaderboard is the stuff of sporting legend. Less than 10 years ago, his game appeared to have deserted him and his future was far from certain.

But through hard work and practice, he clawed his way back to the top and that US Open win at Pinehurst in 2005, a result described by Tiger Woods’ caddie and Campbell’s fellow Kiwi Steve Williams as, “the single greatest sporting moment in New Zealand history”.

“Back in 1998 I was going to throw the game away and sell golf balls,” said Campbell. “I missed my European Tour card and also Australasian Tour card. I had no place to play back in '98 and luckily enough I got a few invites and regained my card for both Tours. So emotionally it was a bit of a roller coaster. But I worked very hard, very, very hard.

“And then in 2005 having that putt to win a Major… it’s what you dream about as a kid. But it's certainly been an interesting journey the last 10 years.”

The first New Zealander to win a Major since Bob Charles won the Open Championship in 1963, Campbell saw his status elevated to that of superstar in his native country.

“I think for the first time I actually made the front page of the newspapers back home with the All Blacks,” he smiled. “They've been champions and heroes of mine, and to knock them off their pedestal for one week meant a lot to me!”

Qatar Golf Association President Hassan Al Nuami said he was sure Campbell would enjoy his first visit to the Middle East state. “Qataris are known for their hospitality and I’m sure Michael will take away fond memories of his first visit to the country,” he said. “We certainly look forward to welcoming him to the Doha Golf Club which is in immaculate shape for the tournament.”

To be played at the Doha Golf Club from January 25-28, the Commercialbank Qatar Masters is sanctioned by both the PGA European Tour and the Asian Tour.

January 15, 2007

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