Attention, everyone: From March 26 to 29, the 2026 Hero Indian Open takes place at the notorious DLF Golf and Country Club near New Delhi. The first round starts on Thursday, March 26. It kicks off at 1:30 AM GMT (2:30 AM CET). With a record prize fund of a whopping $2.55 million (the winner pockets $425,000!), it's not just about glory here, but also about some serious cash.
This year's field is exceptionally strong: A total of 138 golfers are teeing off, including genuine top shots like Akshay Bhatia (#22 OWGR) and Casey Jarvis (#69 OWGR), who has already secured two victories in 2026. Defending champion Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra is also back – let's see if he can repeat his triumph. Prominent names like Francesco Molinari and Rafa Cabrera Bello are also participating, along with promising Indian talents eager to make a splash on home soil.
Welcome to the Green Nightmare: The DLF Golf and Country Club
The course is famous and infamous: The Gary Player-designed Signature Course at the DLF Golf and Country Club is a true beast. At Par 72 and measuring 7,416 yards (6,782 meters), it's considered one of the toughest tests on the DP World Tour. Last year, only three players finished under par – that says it all, golfers!
Hot Topic: Race to Dubai and Local Heroes
The Hero Indian Open is a highlight not just because of the prize money. For many players, especially those fighting for their spot in the Top 100 of the Race to Dubai, everything is on the line here. Even the rumors surrounding Rory McIlroy, who has shown interest in the DLF, demonstrate how attractive this course is to the elite.
Indian golf is booming, and talents like Kartik Singh (16) and Shubham Jaglan (21) are teeing off, eager to seize their opportunity on the big stage. SSP Chawrasia, a veteran of Indian golf, is also participating with a wildcard. It will be exciting to see who keeps their nerve and ultimately claims victory here.
