Golf Saudi eyes rapid growth with new CEO appointment

Dustin Johnson of the US competes during the final round of the PIF Saudi International at Royal Greens Golf at King Abdullah Economic City, north of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah, on February 6, 2022. (AFP)
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Updated 29 January 2023
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Golf Saudi eyes rapid growth with new CEO appointment

  • Noah Alireza will build on the recent success of the sport in the Kingdom with focus on maximizing domestic interest

RIYADH: Golf in the Kingdom is set to embark on the next phase of its growth with the appointment of Noah Alireza as new CEO of Golf Saudi, who succeeds Majed Al-Sorour.

 

Alireza, a former member of the Saudi Arabian national team who has represented his country at the Asian Games, has a wealth of experience. He has also been a strategy adviser to some of Saudi Arabia’s most influential public and private entities, is a lifelong student of the game, and a graduate of Brown University.

“I’m honored to start this role and be part of the future of the Golf ecosystem in Saudi,” said Alireza. “Golf Saudi is set to deliver significant initiatives and programs aligned with the objectives of Vision 2030 to improve quality of life and sports mass participation. My goal is to ensure that the acceleration and activation of these create a highly significant impact on the nation.”

“The task at hand is to further enhance the country’s masterplan for golf and, in hand with private- and public-sector bodies, create an unparalleled ecosystem which derives incredible value for the people of Saudi Arabia and visitors from around the world.

“I appreciate the trust of Golf Saudi’s board for giving me this opportunity, and I would like to thank my predecessor, Mr. Majed Al-Sorour, for his role during the foundational phase of the organization.”

Al-Sorour, whose four years at the helm saw unprecedented progress in Saudi Arabia’s golfing landscape, will remain as board member of Golf Saudi, board member and deputy chairman of the Saudi Golf Federation and secretary of the Arab Golf Federation.

Since its formation in 2018, Golf Saudi has created opportunities for more people to experience the benefits of golf. In the last year alone, over 50,000 individuals have been introduced to golf through a wide variety of activities.

The organization has placed equal emphasis on the development of a sustainable ecosystem for the sport, creating the world’s first National Sustainability Strategy for golf, centered on environmental, social and economic impacts.

This has included alignment with the United Nations’ Sport for Climate Action Framework and the creation of higher education programs in collaboration with the Club Managers’ Association of Europe and the National Training Center for Facilities and Hospitality Management.

The announcement comes on the cusp of an historic season, with no fewer than four international men’s and women’s events set to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2023, starting next week at the PIF Saudi International, powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers.


Poulter, Westwood to continue as Majesticks GC co-captains for 2026 LIV Golf season

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Poulter, Westwood to continue as Majesticks GC co-captains for 2026 LIV Golf season

London: British golfing icons Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood have re-signed with Majesticks GC as co-captains for the 2026 LIV Golf season, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
The Ryder Cup legend and former world number one will once again lead the side alongside fellow Englishman and former European Open champion Laurie Canter, who joins the team ahead of the new campaign.
Foundational figures in the creation and evolution of Majesticks GC, Poulter and Westwood bring more than 60 years of combined professional experience as the team enters the next phase of its development. Both players have played a central role in shaping the club’s identity, standards and culture since its inception.
The duo’s contrasting but complementary leadership styles have been a defining feature of Majesticks GC. Westwood’s calm and clinical approach has balanced Poulter’s intensity, charisma and competitive edge, helping to establish the team as one of the most recognizable outfits on the LIV Golf circuit.
Poulter, who has recorded victories on both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, said he was eager to continue his journey with the team.
“I’ve been part of Majesticks Golf Club from day one, and am excited to continue on that journey as a player and co-captain,” he said. “What we’ve built here, both on and off the course, is special, with a clear long-term vision. LIV Golf has changed the game in ways that excite both players and fans, and being part of that evolution has been incredible. Re-signing for 2026 is an easy decision for me. I’m as motivated as ever, and I can’t wait to help drive this team forward into the 2026 season.”
Team principal James Dunkley highlighted Poulter’s influence within the squad, saying: “Ian is a hugely important part of this team. He sets standards, inspires everyone around him, and brings a level of energy and passion that instills belief in us all. His influence, both competitively and culturally, is enormous, and having both him and Lee back for 2026 is a major boost.”
Co-team principal Oliver Banks added: “Ian brings a unique skillset and personality to the sport. He’s a leader, an innovator and a personality who embodies what Majesticks Golf Club is about. His connection with fans, his passion and commitment to pushing the sport forward make him invaluable.”
Westwood, one of the most consistent performers of his generation, brings more than three decades of elite experience to the team, including multiple international victories and a spell at the top of the world rankings. His composed presence and technical understanding have been central to Majesticks GC’s development.
“It’s fantastic to continue this journey with Majesticks GC,” Westwood said. “What we’ve built together over the last few years has been incredibly rewarding, and the progression we’re making as a team and as part of LIV Golf is nothing short of incredible. I’m committed to helping push us forward in 2026 and contributing in every way I can, both as a player and a leader.”
Dunkley described Westwood’s impact as fundamental to the club’s structure. “Lee’s influence runs deep through this organization. His leadership style is measured and insightful, and brings immense experience to the team, helping to drive our standards. Having one of the best players in the game back for 2026 strengthens our foundation for the season ahead.”
Banks echoed those sentiments, adding: “Lee is integral to the Majesticks identity. He brings authenticity, knowledge and a strong sense of purpose to everything he does. His presence is felt throughout the team, and we’re delighted to continue building with him as we pursue our aspirations.”
Majesticks GC will look to build on that continuity of leadership as they prepare for the 2026 LIV Golf season.