While Tommy Fleetwood competes in PGA Tour events across the United States, his family finds themselves in Dubai, unable to leave due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The English golfer expressed gratitude for the safety measures implemented in the UAE amid rising tensions from airstrikes by the US and Israel in nearby regions.
During a press conference at The Players Championship, Fleetwood emphasized that his family remains safe in Dubai. “It’s been a strange time,” he noted, commending the UAE for its efforts to ensure the security of residents. He acknowledged that the country has managed the situation remarkably well, providing a sense of safety for those living there.
While the airspace over Dubai has partially reopened, Fleetwood is uncertain about when his family will be able to join him in the US. “They’re supposed to travel soon,” he mentioned, while reiterating that their safety remains the primary concern. His experience has been defined by their well-being, with no personal experience of the conflict impacting his perspective.
Fleetwood, currently ranked No. 3 in the Official World Golf Ranking, had a strong start to his season with a tie for fourth at the ATT Pebble Beach Pro-Am and a tie for seventh at the Genesis Invitational. However, he encountered challenges at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where he finished 49th after two rounds of 76.
When asked if concerns for his family’s safety have influenced his performance, Fleetwood shrugged off the notion. “I don’t really like to make excuses,” he remarked, pointing out that Bay Hill presents its own difficulties. He is focused on his game, emphasizing the importance of immersing himself in work and practice, regardless of external circumstances.
“I would love for my family to be in a more comfortable situation,” he stated, but he maintains faith in the UAE’s handling of the crisis. His family’s safety is his utmost priority, which he values above all else.
As he prepares for the upcoming competition at TPC Sawgrass, Fleetwood hopes to recover from his recent struggles. He sees every week as a new opportunity to improve. “I hope to have a really good week this time,” he expressed, acknowledging that finishing 49th is not the end of the world in his career.
Consistently striving for improvement, Fleetwood believes that training should aim for a high and consistent level of performance. He optimistically remarked that his game tends to rebound positively after challenging weeks, drawing from his past experiences.
Last year, Fleetwood tied for 14th place at The Players Championship, demonstrating his capability to compete at a high level. As he faces the challenges ahead, he remains dedicated to honing his skills and achieving his goals on the tour.