Bahrain Open Championship Preview

This event offers players an opportunity to establish their early-season form. The field features a highly competitive lineup of the world’s top golfers, all seeking a strong start to the season. Last year’s tournament saw Laurie Canter secure a convincing victory, thanks to an impressive display on the final day. This year’s competition promises to be intense, with numerous golfers eager to achieve success. Let’s preview the tournament.

Patrick Reed

Given Patrick Reed’s impressive start to the season, it is difficult to rule him out as a contender for the Bahrain Open Championship. The 35-year-old American has secured a notable victory, winning the Hero Dubai Desert Classic by four strokes, where he outperformed Andy Sullivan in the final stages. This win marks his fourth DP World Tour title in 121 starts and his first since the 2020 WGC Mexico Championship, a nearly six-year gap. Reed’s consistent performance on tour over the past three years has been impressive, with the only missing element being the ability to finish strongly. With his winning mentality now reestablished, he will aim to capitalize on this success and position himself among the top players this year.

Padraig Harrington

Padraig Harrington, 54, continues to demonstrate a strong competitive drive in golf, participating in both senior and elite tournaments. As a three-time major championship winner, Harrington has experienced greater success at the senior level, securing two championships last year. Despite facing challenges on the PGA Tour, particularly against younger competitors, he delivered a commendable performance in the events he entered, considering the intense competition. Following his five-under-par finish, where he tied for 38th place, Harrington returns to the event, which is expected to provide an opportunity for him to rebound, especially after being cut from the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. He will strive to regain his footing and deliver an improved performance to establish a strong presence in the season.

Dylan Fritelli

Dylan Fritelli is expected to be a top contender for the title. With fond memories of his victory in the 2024 edition of the event, Fritelli will enter the tournament with a strong mindset. This win was particularly significant, as it marked his first DP World Tour title in six years. As a 35-year-old South African, Fritelli will likely leverage this achievement for motivation. Furthermore, his current form is promising, having started the season with a top-10 finish at the Dubai Invitational, where he faced stiff competition. Fritelli’s resilience was evident, as he was not initially in contention for a high finish. In the last six events, Fritelli has encountered only one cut, demonstrating his competitiveness.

Prize Money

The event, scheduled to take place at Royal Golf Club, features a total prize money of $2.75 million, with the winner receiving $450,000.

Past winners

2025 ( Laurie Canter)

– 2024 ( Dylan Fritelli)