It's hard to believe how many top names are missing from the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship 2026 – despite nine million dollars in prize money and the start of the DP World Tour playoffs. The tournament, which takes place from November 5th to 8th, 2026, at Yas Links in Abu Dhabi, is the first showdown in the Race to Dubai, featuring the top 70 on the Order of Merit. Aaron Rai aims to defend his title here, but the focus is already on the big absentees.
The Top Contenders Teeing Off
But who is actually competing for the trophy and the hefty check of at least 1.5 million dollars? Rory McIlroy, world number 2, leads the field, closely followed by Tommy Fleetwood (world number 7), Jon Rahm (world number 15), and defending champion Aaron Rai (world number 17). It's great to see Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton also teeing off, as both have rejected LIV Golf 2.0 plans and are fully committed to the DP World Tour again.
The Big Names Who Are Missing
The list of prominent withdrawals reads like a who's who of European golf: Matt Fitzpatrick, Alex Fitzpatrick, Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, Ludvig Åberg, and Ryan Fox – all of them are missing from the tee. The shock is deep, as these golfers in particular would have added even more prestige to the tournament. Particularly disappointing: Robert MacIntyre has withdrawn due to concerns about the ongoing regional conflict, not only for Abu Dhabi BUT ALSO for the final in Dubai.
These absences could thoroughly shake up the Race to Dubai once again and reshuffle the cards for the final. Abu Dhabi is not only the first of two playoff events, each with over $9 million in prize money, but also the last chance for many to secure a spot among the top 50, who then get to compete in the showdown of the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. Pure drama is therefore guaranteed, even with the gaps in the starting field.
