Tommy Fleetwood has expressed relief after his family successfully returned to England from Dubai, amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The world No. 3 golfer, currently competing in Florida, saw his wife, son, and two stepsons leave their home of four years and land back in the UK on Wednesday evening.
Speaking after a fine 69 to open the Players Championship, Fleetwood admitted the situation had been difficult. “It is difficult not being able to travel. That has obviously been difficult. But when you know they’re fine, that’s kind of a relief,” he said. “I think Clare is very relieved now. She feels good and everything. It’s just not a great time for so many people in the country.”
The Fleetwoods were among tens of thousands of Britons attempting to leave the United Arab Emirates, with passenger flights grounded for days. “They had one flight that was cancelled or suspended. And then they got lucky getting out because they got out on the flight and then I think something happened at the airport while they were in the air or something. So they got lucky timing wise,” Fleetwood added.
Fleetwood praised the nation’s leaders for their handling of the situation. “All I can say is that my family felt very safe and think the nation and the leaders have done an amazing job of making everybody feel safe and well and protected. I know my family have been safe and that’s the important thing. But you would wish for different.”
On the course, Fleetwood enjoyed a golden run over a notoriously difficult stretch at Sawgrass, making an eagle at the 16th before delivering birdies on the next two holes. Despite three bogeys on the front nine, he was content with his day. “I played solidly and hit a lot of good shots,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy drove 330 yards down the first fairway despite pre-tournament back concerns, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler carded a level-par 72. Justin Thomas, recovering from back surgery in late 2025, shot a 68, saying, “I feel confident with things. But until it happens in competition, it’s kind of hard to fully buy into ‘you’re ready’.”
