New Delhi, Oct 17 (NationPress) Golf in India is witnessing an unprecedented surge of excitement. A decade ago, there was a palpable thrill when Tiger Woods visited India in 2014. Now, the excitement has escalated with Rory McIlroy, the latest Grand Slam champion and the proud holder of golf's most coveted award – the Green Jacket – kicking off his DP India Championship journey during his inaugural trip to India.

From a stunning two-tiered balcony that offers a breathtaking view of the 18th green, Yuvraj Narain, Deputy CEO and Chief Financial Officer of DP World, observed McIlroy as he navigated the fairway.

Narain expressed, “Every sport requires a catalyst to ignite public interest. The DP World India Championship serves as that catalyst. When young Indians witness Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, or Viktor Hovland competing on their home turf, it plants the seeds for a lifelong relationship with the game.”

He further remarked, “We are confident that golf is poised to claim its rightful place in the Indian sports arena. Historically, it has been perceived as an elite sport, but that view is shifting. By showcasing the world's finest players here, we can motivate young Indians to embrace golf as an accessible sport that embodies India's global aspirations.”

DP World serves as the primary sponsor of the Tour and already supports the season-closing DP World Tour Championships in Dubai, now adding the DP World India Championship to their growing portfolio.

Narain noted, “India stands as one of the fastest-growing economies globally, driven by a vibrant, youthful populace. Sports are increasingly becoming integral to daily life, and even minor initiatives can yield significant impacts. Our mission is to cultivate opportunities across various sports that promote healthy, active lifestyles and inspire future generations.”

DP World has established its presence in the Indian sports landscape, notably through the Indian Premier League and their collaboration with Sachin Tendulkar.

Narain believes it is the opportune moment for golf to gain momentum. He emphasizes that their partnerships are not fleeting. “Our investments are made with a long-term perspective, not just for a few years.”

The DP World India Championships and various other commitments in golf, including a partnership with Zen Academy, which nurtures young golfers, are part of a broader vision.

He stated, “In the long run, this is merely the beginning. India possesses the scale, enthusiasm, and capability to host multiple world-class tournaments. We see this event as the inception of something grander, a spark that can attract increased investment and generate more opportunities for Indian golf.”

“At DP World, we are dedicated to constructing world-class supply-chain infrastructure, connecting India internally and linking it with the globe. Through golf, we extend that philosophy of connectivity to communities, building pathways that unite individuals, opportunities, and progress.”

Narain emphasizes the growing prominence of sports in India, with cricket exemplifying the potential when a nation embraces activity and excellence. He elaborated, “Our aim is to provide young people with enhanced opportunities to be active, healthy, and inspired, whether through golf or any other sport that cultivates character and confidence.”

As McIlroy departs the green for the next tee box, Narain concludes, “The DP World India Championship transcends being just a tournament; it symbolizes India's expanding role on the global sports stage. With elite players like McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, and Viktor Hovland competing here, we are demonstrating that India can host world-class events and, crucially, inspire a new generation to dream beyond boundaries.”