The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) is making big waves in Indian golf, announcing plans for a new professional league and a significant increase in prize money for the current season.
A New Era for Indian Golf
PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl confirmed that discussions are well underway for establishing a dedicated golf league for professional players in the country. This upcoming league from the PGTI will be distinct from the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL), which was announced earlier this year.
Johl indicated that a deal for the PGTI league could be finalized within weeks, aiming for it to launch this very year. Emphasizing its focus, he stated the league would exclusively feature professional golfers, ensuring top-tier competition.
Record Prize Money Boost
During a recent press conference, the PGTI unveiled impressive financial commitments for the latter half of the golf season. With new sponsors like Indian Oil and Amul joining their roster, the tour plans to host a minimum of 15 tournaments from August to December.
These events alone will offer a total prize money of Rs 17 crores. This brings the overall season’s prize money to a staggering Rs 33 crores, marking an Rs 8 crore increase from the previous season. This figure also excludes major international events like the Indian Open and the DP World India Championships, which further boost the total earnings for players.
The Crown Jewel: DP World India Championships
The highly anticipated DP World India Championships is set to be the marquee event for the PGTI this season. Headlining the field will be none other than newly-minted Masters champion, Rory McIlroy, at the prestigious Delhi Golf Club.
With a colossal prize purse of $4 million, this event will stand as the richest golf tournament ever staged in India, promising an exciting spectacle for fans and players alike.
Nurturing Future Talent
Beyond the professional league and major tournaments, the PGTI is also investing in grassroots development. Three NextGen events are scheduled to take place in Patna, Lucknow, and Bhubaneswar.
Each of these tournaments will offer prize money of Rs 20 lakh, providing crucial opportunities for emerging talent to gain experience and earn recognition on the national stage.
The League’s Vision: Franchise Model
Delving deeper into the format of the proposed PGTI league, Johl outlined a dynamic, franchise-based model. He envisions thrilling head-to-head matches between players representing different franchises.
Imagine iconic matchups, like Gaganjeet Bhullar going one-on-one against Jeev Milkha Singh. This exciting format aims to captivate audiences and elevate the sport’s profile in India.
Leadership’s Stance: Supporting All Professionals
PGTI President Kapil Dev, the legendary former India cricket captain, was also present at the announcement. He expressed support for any initiative that brings more funds into Indian golf, including the IGPL.
However, Dev emphasized the PGTI’s primary responsibility: to nurture and support all 250 professional golfers in the country, not just an elite few. He underscored the importance of loyalty and building a strong, established organization akin to the cricket board.
- PGTI is actively working on launching a new professional golf league this year.
- The total prize money for the current PGTI season has increased to Rs 33 crores.
- The DP World India Championships, featuring Rory McIlroy, will be India’s richest golf event at $4 million.
- The upcoming league will be franchise-based and exclusively for professional players.
- PGTI aims to support all 250 professional golfers across India.
These developments signify a period of significant growth and opportunity for professional golf in India, promising a more structured and financially rewarding future for its athletes.
