Australian golfers Kayun Mudadana and Ella Scaysbrook made impressive starts at the 2025 UAE Cup powered by Emirates NBD, showcasing their skills during the opening round at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club. Each athlete took early control of their divisions, setting a high bar for the competition.
Mudadana led the Men’s Division with a remarkable seven-under-par 63, while 19-year-old Scaysbrook topped the Women’s leaderboard after a solid four-under 66. The tournament is gaining momentum as a significant event on the global amateur golf calendar.
Recognized as the flagship amateur event by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), this 54-hole championship draws both men and women players. It offers valuable World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, supported by The R&A, attracting competitors from 39 countries this year, demonstrating its growing prestige.
Mudadana’s stellar performance was marked by an aggressive approach and remarkable accuracy. After carding four birdies from the fourth hole, he completed the front nine with a score of 31 and maintained his momentum on the back nine, adding four more birdies despite a single blemish at the 13th hole. His effort placed him just one shot ahead of Eliot Baker from England, a Walker Cup player with notable amateur achievements.
In the UAE standings, Sam Mullane emerged as the top local player, finishing round one with a flawless five-under 65, featuring five birdies and no dropped shots, positioning him firmly in third place.
Scaysbrook’s performance in the Women’s Division reflected a level of maturity that belies her age. Having secured second place in the previous year’s event, she arrived with a clear goal. “I came second last year, and it is great to be back in the UAE at this event. My focus is strong this year, having placed third in the US Women’s Amateur. I enjoyed my round today and look forward to building on this momentum,” she shared.
Close behind Scaysbrook is Imogen Hall from England, who managed an impressive 67 despite varying weather conditions throughout the day. Playing at her home course at The Els Club, Dubai, Hall adapted well, showcasing her familiarity with the course.
The UAE Cup also serves as a gateway to professional golfing opportunities. The Men’s champion is granted two starts on the HotelPlanner Tour, while the Women’s winner earns a spot on the Ladies European Tour. This highlights the UAE’s increasing commitment to fostering talent in both amateur and women’s golf. Additionally, the leading junior boy and girl will be invited to the Dubai Junior Desert Classic in January 2026.
A new team competition adds to the event’s intrigue, allowing each participating country to nominate one male and one female amateur. After the first round, Australia, represented by Mudadana and Scaysbrook, shares the lead with Team England, promising an exciting contention over the next two rounds.
With elite amateur skills on display and essential ranking points available, the UAE Cup is solidifying its reputation as a premier amateur golf event in the region.
First Round Scores
Men’s Division (6,935 yards, Par 70)
- Kayun Mudadana (AUS) 63
- Eliot Baker (ENG) 64
- Sam Mullane (UAE) 65
Ladies’ Division (5,955 yards, Par 70)
- Ella Scaysbrook (AUS) 66
- Imogen Hall (ENG) 67
- Y. S. Yang (KOR) 67