Rory McIlroy set for debut in new $4million tournament

For the first time in his professional career, Rory McIlroy is heading to India. 

After months of speculation, McIlroy has been confirmed as the headline attraction for October’s inaugural DP World India Championship at Delhi Golf Club in New Dehli.

His appearance at the inaugural $4million event will be the first time McIlroy has set foot in India.

“I’m excited to not only tee it up in India for the first time but also visit a country that I’ve always wanted to explore,” the Masters champion said in a press release.

• Rory McIlroy spotted in Spain ahead of huge sporting event

• Rory McIlroy makes surprise decision after PGA Championship blow

“I’m proud to play in the inaugural DP World India Championship. I’ve always enjoyed playing a global schedule and as I have previously said, there is tremendous potential to grow golf further in the country.

“This is a great opportunity, and I can’t wait to play in front of Indian golf fans.”

Indeed, McIlroy mania will sweep India when the showpiece rolls around from October 14-17.

In January, Bryson DeChambeau was the talk of Delhi as he teed it up at the DLF Country Club for an Asian Tour International Series event.

“Our mission to support the growth of golf from the grassroots remains central to our global golf vision,” DP World’s Yuvraj Narayan, the Group Deputy CEO and Chief Financial Officer said.

“Hosting a global icon like Rory in India is a proud milestone in that journey.”

• Sky Sports commentator responds to Rory McIlroy’s media snub

• Three more huge names commit to Genesis Scottish Open

This is the second time in a week that McIlroy has confirmed a significant change to his 2025 calendar.

The Northern Irishman will head Down Under in December to play the Australian Open for the first time since 2014.

In a huge coup for the Aussie authorities, McIlroy has signed a two-year deal to compete at the historic tournament, starting at Royal Melbourne from December 4-7.

When he returns in 2026, McIlroy will play on another of Australia’s iconic courses, Kingston Heath.

“I’m proud to be committing to the Australian Open for the next two years,” McIlroy said, “especially with it being played on the world-class Melbourne Sandbelt – somewhere I’ve always wanted to play professionally.”

Ben Parsons is the Senior Writer at bunkered and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.