Multiple tour winner ends Ryder Cup dream after switching (!) nationality

Multiple DP World Tour winner Adrian Otaegui has ended his hopes of playing in a Ryder Cup after making the decision to switch nationalities. 

The Spanish-born golfer made the surprise announcement in a news conference on Tuesday in Dubai. 

Going forward, the 32-year-old will now represent the United Arab Emirates. 

His dream is to play in the Olympics and win a medal. 

"The UAE is my home," Otaegui told reporters. 

"I love its culture and how it has become one of the most innovative nations in the past 50 years.

"My goal is to represent the UAE globally, win an Olympic medal, and raise its flag on the podium."

He added: "At the same time, I feel that young Emirati golfers need a role model to inspire them to develop and enhance their skills. 

"I am excited to contribute to the growth of golf in the UAE and assist the UAE Golf Federation in establishing an elite programme to create future champions."

Otageui has won five times on the DP World Tour. 

His most recent victory came in May at the Volvo China Open. 

Otageui also won the Estrella Damn N.A. Andalucia masters in 2022, which put him into contention to qualify for the 2023 European Ryder Cup team. 

But his chances of securing automatic qualification were dealt a blow after he played in LIV Golf events without tournament releases. 

He had to serve a four-month ban. 

Otageui is currently ranked 173rd in the Official World Golf Ranking. 

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