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Welsh golfer Jack Davidson claimed victory at the Al Mouj Marassi 2 Championship, part of the MENA Tour’s Egyptian swing, after defeating Spain’s Juan Salama in a thrilling playoff at the Al Mouj Marassi Golf Resort. The MENA Tour golf championship concluded with Davidson securing an $18,000 prize from a total purse of $100,000, highlighting the growing prominence of professional golf in the Middle East and North Africa region.
According to tournament organizers, both Davidson and Salama finished the three regulation rounds tied at 14 under par, each carding a 68 in the final round. The playoff took place at the 18th hole, where Davidson emerged victorious in front of an international field of competitors.
Davidson’s Journey to MENA Tour Golf Championship Success
The Welsh champion credited his recent transformation for the breakthrough victory. According to Davidson, his relationship with golf was at its lowest point in late 2023, but radical changes and a strong support team have dramatically improved his performance and mindset. He emphasized that the support system around him made the difference in his game.
Davidson also praised the MENA Tour for providing crucial competitive opportunities at the right time. He stated that the tour gave him a platform to compete against strong international players on excellent golf courses, particularly when he had begun noticing improvements in his game but lacked venues to showcase his progress.
MENA Tour Continues Regional Golf Development
The MENA Tour, a UAE-based initiative launched in 2011, remains the only professional golf tour in the region offering Official World Golf Ranking points. The tour has successfully continued to promote the sport throughout the Middle East and North Africa, providing players with a clear pathway to major international golf circuits.
Meanwhile, Scotland’s Michael Stewart finished third individually at 13 under par after a final round of 68. Czech golfer Dominik Pavusek and England’s Curtis Knipes shared fourth place at 11 under par, demonstrating the international diversity of the competition.
Regional Players Make Their Mark
However, the tournament also celebrated local talent. Egyptian amateur golfer Adam El Shamy earned both the best amateur player and best Egyptian player titles for the second consecutive week, finishing the championship at one under par. His consistent performance underscores the development of homegrown golf talent in the region.
In contrast to expectations, Chris Wood, who currently leads the MENA Tour standings this season, finished in 15th place at eight strokes under par. His performance indicates the competitive depth across the professional golf tournaments in the series.
Egyptian Swing Continues
Additionally, the championship showcased Al Mouj Marassi Golf Resort as a premier destination for professional golf in Egypt. The venue hosted international competitors from various countries, contributing to Egypt’s growing reputation as a golf tourism destination. The $100,000 prize fund attracted quality fields and ensured competitive play throughout the three regulation rounds.
The MENA Tour’s Egyptian swing will conclude with its fourth and final championship next week at Madinaty Golf Club in Cairo. Tournament officials have not yet announced specific details about the upcoming event, though it is expected to maintain the same competitive format and continue providing valuable ranking points for aspiring professional golfers seeking advancement to larger international tours.
