The UAE’s No.1 golfer, Ahmad Skaik, is hoping to build on his impressive outing at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship after announcing plans to turn professional next year ‘if the time is right.’
The youngster posted a final round 71 at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club to finish the prestigious tournament on four over par in 42nd, the second best result by an Emirati after Ahmed Al Musharrekh finished in a share of 24th in 2011.
With his studies coming to an end soon, coupled with the desire to compete with the game’s best week after week, Skaik is keen to join the professional ranks next year, but only if the time is right.
“I’ve been playing local events for a while, so when I get the chance to play with these guys it makes it pretty special and hopefully I can finish the next semester and have the opportunity to play against the big guns every week,” said Skaik.
“I’ll maybe play on as an amateur for six months to a year, and then hopefully turn pro if the time is right.”
The former UAE Presidents Cup champion won the hearts of the country this week with his heroic performance, but Skaik himself was surprised at how well he did, with fitness and form certainly not at its peak.
“I’m pretty happy with my performance,” he said. “The six over par 77 in the third round stings, but I wasn’t expecting to shoot four over across four rounds. Coming into the week my form wasn’t good enough, but I’m very happy with my game, I took to the next level and hopefully I can keep this standard up, and keep getting better.
“It is an honour for me to represent my county. I would like to inspire the next generation of Emirati golfers, my younger brother as well, so I hope I have been a decent role model this week.”
The country couldn’t have asked for a better role model. Rest up Ahmad, the future is bright for Emirati golf.
