Australian Star Carruthers Sets Pace at Abu Dhabi Challenge
Coby Carruthers of Australia fired a flawless eight-under-par 62 to lead the field after the opening round of the Abu Dhabi Challenge at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge, now in its fourth edition, has attracted an exceptional international field of 144 players representing 24 nations to compete at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in the Al Ain Region. Organised in partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation and with the support of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the tournament represents one of the most significant fixtures on the international HotelPlanner Tour calendar.
Australia’s Coby Carruthers made a commanding opening statement, carding a remarkable bogey-free round of 62 to establish a commanding lead after day one. The exceptional performance has positioned Carruthers as the player to beat as the tournament progresses through Saturday.
Following Carruthers’ extraordinary effort, Belgium’s Matthis Besard, Germany’s Michael Hirmer and Denmark’s Victor Sidal Svendsen occupy joint second position on six-under-par after recording rounds of 64. The competitive leaderboard reflects the exceptional quality of players competing for the substantial prize fund of US$350,000, equivalent to approximately AED1.285 million.
The tournament showcases remarkable depth, drawing competitors from across Europe, Africa, the Americas and Australia, whilst also providing a platform for emerging Emirati talent. Ahmad Skaik and Ahmed Al Musharrekh represent the UAE alongside other UAE-based competitors in the field.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge carries particular significance within the professional golf calendar, serving as the final qualifying event before the two concluding Road to Mallorca tournaments scheduled in China. The top 68 players in the world rankings following the conclusion of this championship will advance to compete in the Chinese events, with the season-culminating Grand Final taking place in Mallorca.
The championship continues the tournament’s established legacy of attracting world-class competition. Previous champions include Portugal’s Ricardo Gouveia (2023), England’s Garrick Porteous (2024) and Italy’s Renato Paratore (2025), demonstrating the tournament’s capacity to showcase elite international talent and determine significant career progression for competing professionals.
Source: WAM