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| The Abu Dhabi Golf Club [GALLO/GETTY] |
Two of Europe's best golfers, Sergio Garcia and Padraig Harrington, will compete in the $2 million Abu Dhabi Golf Championship in January.
Garcia, who broke a three-year title drought on the European Tour when he won the Castello Masters in Spain last week, and three-time major champion Harrington were confirmed as the star attractions of the Abu Dhabi tournament.
Joining the two European Ryder Cup stars will be the man who narrowly missed being part of the biennial showdown against the United States at Valhalla earlier this year, defending champion Martin Kaymer of Germany.
Tourism strategy
"This Championship is central to our long-term golf tourism strategy which is being empowered with the creation of new championship facilities in Abu Dhabi.
"We are delighted to have in our field two of the top-five ranked players in the world and we are sure of some thrilling golf when the tournament takes place," Faisal al-Sheikh of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority said at a news conference in the Emirates' capital.
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| Sergio Garcia of Spain and Padraig Harrington of Ireland are signed up [GALLO/GETTY] |
Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority owns and organises the golf championship, which is part of the European Tour.
"I've done quite nicely in Abu Dhabi in the past," said Harrington, the reigning Open Championship and PGA Championship winner.
"I like the course and I do feel it's one I'm competitive on.
"The last couple of times, I was just starting my season there, but I am focusing hard on my preparation and I think when I come to Abu Dhabi in January, I'll be ready with my A game."
The organisers said they hope to attract several more names from the world's top-20.
Garcia and Harrington are ranked third and fifth.
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