This Week in Golf: Global golf winds down with high stakes in Mauritius and Thailand

The global golfing calendar is edging toward its final putt of the year, with trophies decided, cards secured, or lost, and the storylines for 2026 already beginning to take shape.

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This week offers a fitting finale, combining opportunity, ambition, and reflection across two key tournaments in different corners of the golfing world.

On the DP World Tour, the spotlight falls on the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, the final event of the 2025 season. Co-sanctioned with the Sunshine Tour and boasting a prize fund of $1.2 million, the tournament closes out the ‘Opening Swing’ and underlines golf’s unique pyramid structure.

England’s John Parry returns as defending champion in a rare and commendable move. His victory here last season kick-started a memorable campaign, one that ultimately saw him finish 11th on the Race to Dubai and secure his PGA Tour card for 2026. In an era when defending champions don’t always return, Parry’s presence adds extra meaning to the week.

A strong international field has assembled at Heritage La Reserve Golf Links, including last week’s DP World Tour winner Jayden Schaper (RSA), UAE-based Nicolas Colsaerts (Bel) and Dominic Foos (Ger), alongside a deep South African contingent. History suggests that early momentum on the Race to Dubai often sets the tone for the season ahead and players know it.

Meanwhile, in Thailand, the Asian Tour Final Qualifying School represents a different kind of drama. Over five demanding rounds, hopefuls will battle for status, with careers hinging on small margins and big moments. It’s the classic proving ground where tomorrow’s tour regulars begin their climb.

The DP World Tour calendar resumes in January with the launch of the International Swing, as the Dubai Invitational returns to Dubai Creek Resort from 15–18 January 2026, featuring headline acts Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood—a mouthwatering way to begin the new year.

At a Glance

DP World Tour

• Event: AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open

• Dates: Thursday 18 – Sunday 21 December

• Venue: Heritage La Reserve Golf Links, Mauritius

• Prize Fund: $1.2 million

Asian Tour

• Event: Asian Tour Final Qualifying School

• Dates: Wednesday 17 – Sunday 21 December 2025

• Venue: Lake View Resort & Golf Club, Hua Hin, Thailand