India's top golfer Jeev Milkha Singh, on Wednesday, signed a six-figure sponsorship deal with Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai's leading residential golf development and the host venue for the Dubai World Championship from 2009.
- 'I need to maintain my high standards'
Under the contract, Singh will sport the Jumeirah Golf Estates branding on his headwear and clothing throughout the season, with an option for both parties to renew at the end of the year.
At this year's Dubai Desert Classic, he finished tied 19th at five under.
In a statement, Jeev said, "Jumeirah Golf Estates is an absolutely stunning development.
"The vision and ambition is just outstanding -- and every player on Tour is desperate to qualify for the first Dubai World Championship in November 2009. I'm really proud to be a partner to Jumeirah Golf Estates and I hope this is the start of a long and fruitful relationship."
Jeev was honoured with the Padma Shri last year after his outstanding 2006 season, when the 36-year old won the Volvo China Open and the season-ending Volvo Masters on The European Tour, as well as the final two events of the 2006 Japan Golf Tour season.
David Spencer, Chief Executive Officer, the owner of Jumeirah Golf Estates, said, "Jeev is an exceptional golfer and has an incredible following in India.
"I watched him at this year's Dubai Desert Classic and immediately saw the opportunity for a great partnership. He's going to be Jumeirah Golf Estates' key player sponsorship for 2008 following in the footsteps of Ross Fisher, who we supported in 2007.
"It's great that we're looking East this year and we hope our sponsorship helps him fulfil the great potential he holds, with a strong year on the Tour. We've had so much interest in Jumeirah Golf Estates from Indian investors that I cannot see a better match for us."
From 2009, Dubai will become The European Tour's International Headquarters, with the organisation based at and operated from a purpose-built facility within Jumeirah Golf Estates.
