Defending champion Tommy Fleetwood says he "can't wait" to return to the DP World India Championship after reflecting on the memories that made last year's inaugural event one of the standout weeks of his season.
Ahead of his title defence at Delhi Golf Club, the Englishman sat down to watch back highlights from his victory in India, revisiting everything from his final-round charge and trophy celebration to the atmosphere around the tournament and its impact beyond the golf course.
While the title itself remains a cherished memory, Fleetwood admits the overall experience is what has stayed with him most.
"India's such a gem of a place. Playing in the middle of the city, so you can hear the traffic while you're playing on this really narrow stretch of fairway. I thought it was great and all added to a really special atmosphere that we got to play in."
The unique setting of Delhi Golf Club, combined with passionate galleries throughout the week, created an environment Fleetwood says was unlike anywhere else on the DP World Tour schedule.
"The atmosphere was amazing. The crowd were great. More than anything, they were just so supportive. Playing in front of them was an absolute joy. It really was."
Fleetwood believes tournaments such as the DP World India Championship play an important role not only in showcasing elite golf, but also in inspiring future generations of players.
"It's a great showcase of golf in your country. It's a pleasure for us to play, but also a pleasure for us to be part of growing the game in that region. Honestly, you should be so proud of the tournament that you guys get to host in your country and how much we all enjoy going there."
A memorable Sunday
Fleetwood entered the final round with the lead and vividly recalls the momentum he built during a flawless run through the middle of the back nine.
After opening with a birdie and recovering from an early bogey at the second, he felt his round began to gather pace with a birdie on the fourth before a crucial moment at the seventh.
"I made a great two. The pin was tucked away. It's a really tough par three, seven, and I think making two there was massive. I just started playing really well from that point on."
One of the defining shots arrived at the par-three 17th, where a perfectly judged tee shot helped move him within touching distance of victory.
"Seventeen felt like it was such a huge moment. It just managed to stay on top of that ridge, and then I holed the putt."
A victory shared with family
While the golf was memorable, Fleetwood's favourite moment came after the final putt had dropped.
A week before travelling to India, his son Frankie had made an observation that stayed with him throughout the tournament.
"I was playing golf with Frankie at home, and he said that I'd never won a tournament where he could run onto the 18th green."
Fleetwood wrote the comment down and carried it with him all week. When victory was secured, Frankie got his chance to join the celebrations.
"I think that's what all of us dream of. Just having your child come and celebrate with you on the 18th green. I'm so grateful to have been able to experience that moment."
Leaving a legacy
Away from tournament competition, Fleetwood also reflected fondly on his experiences off the course, including attending DP World's Diwali with the Stars Celebration.
"DP World do such an amazing job. It was really traditional but really modern and really cool at the same time. It was amazing. Everybody had such a great time."
Visiting the DP World Clubhouse Project alongside Rory McIlroy also proved particularly meaningful where he was able to witness first-hand the efforts being made to grow the game in India.
"Just great for the kids, I think. To have the opportunity to be part of that, and to be growing the game for kids in India and watching their faces about something that makes such a difference to them.
"I think it's such a huge opportunity for the game of golf in the world."
Fleetwood also enjoyed meeting Indian cricket star Abhishek Sharma during the week, describing him as an impressive young athlete.
"His enthusiasm for his sport and his professionalism and watching how he went about things was great."
Between the atmosphere, the fans, the family memories and the sense of purpose beyond the ropes, last year's championship remains one of the standout weeks of his career.
Now, he is eager to experience it all again.
