The Asian Tour has postponed its season-ending PIF Saudi International indefinitely because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The decision follows an attack on a nearby airport and an assessment of the logistical and organisational difficulties involved.
The competition was originally scheduled for November 18-21 at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia. The £3.76million event has been delayed after King Khalid International Airport, situated roughly 30 minutes from the course, was struck on 11 October. The attack came a day after another that left at least 13 people dead, according to Saudi Arabian officials.
Tour statement and player concerns
"The Asian Tour remains in direct contact with its players and members regarding the schedule and next steps," the tour said in a statement. "Golf Saudi thanks players, partners, and fans for their understanding. Further details will be announced in due course."
The disruption extends beyond the Asian Tour. The DP World Tour playoffs, the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, and the DP World Tour Championship are all scheduled for November in the United Arab Emirates. Players have already voiced serious reservations about travelling to those tournaments.
Fitzpatrick's doubts and McIlroy's confidence
"As things stand right now, I would say I'm not that comfortable. No, I wouldn't be that comfortable," said Matt Fitzpatrick. "A few things have obviously changed for me, perspective and stuff. I had a child in August, and that obviously kind of changes things, I guess, a bit more."
Rory McIlroy ultimately convinced Fitzpatrick to reconsider his position, explaining that he has complete confidence in the DP World Tour to ensure player safety and welfare. "Not for me," McIlroy said regarding any Middle East concerns. "If the local governments feel like it's safe to put on these events, they are not going to put their citizens or people visiting in harm's way, I imagine."
McIlroy confirmed he planned to compete in Abu Dhabi earlier this month. "The Abu Dhabi Championship is always one of the tournaments I look forward to, and it's great to see Aldar come on board as the new title partner," he stated in a press release. "Abu Dhabi is a fantastic place to visit, Yas Links is always in immaculate condition, and the atmosphere throughout the week makes it a special event."
No strikes in UAE since May
There have been no strikes in the UAE since mid-May, and the DP World Tour continues to closely monitor the situation to safeguard player welfare. Whether everyone shares McIlroy's enthusiasm as uncertainty continues in the region remains to be seen. There has previously been speculation that the tournament could move to Spain.
