Tuesday 28 / October / 2025
MUSCAT: On the sun-scorched fairways of the Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club—the UAE’s first grass golf course—20-year-old Ahmed Al Wahaibi teed off with nerves, ambition, and the weight of representing Oman.
Though the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) in Dubai proved a tough test, he emerged with a clearer vision, a sharper game, and an unwavering determination to return stronger.
Al Wahaibi and fellow senior Omani golfer Azzan Al Rumhy recently represented their country at the AAC, one of the most competitive amateur golf tournaments in the world.
While both missed the cut, the experience offered lessons that Al Wahaibi described as “invaluable” for his growth in the sport.
“I was very honoured to participate and represent Oman,” Al Wahaibi said. “It was not just a competitive tournament. The best players from every country had arrived, and to represent a country requires a lot of hard work and sacrifices.”
The young golfer candidly admitted that nerves and pressure affected his performance.
“I know I didn’t make the cut, but we learnt a lot. I really want to make the cut next year,” he said, reflecting on his plans for the 2026 AAC in New Zealand.
Golf has been part of Al Wahaibi’s life for over a decade.
“I started playing almost 11 years ago because of my dad. He used to go to the golf course, and I always wanted to drive the golf cart,” he recalled. Initially drawn to the thrill of driving the carts, Al Wahaibi gradually came to appreciate the game’s deeper demands.
“Golf is a tactical game. It requires not just skills and practice, but patience and learning, lessons that apply off the course too,” he said.
Al Wahaibi, who is pursuing a degree in finance at the College of Banking and Financial Studies, has steadily made a mark on the domestic and regional amateur scene.
Among his achievements are a first-place team finish at the GCC Arab Tournament, podium finishes in Oman, Egypt, and Muscat, and recent victories at national team tournaments.
“It’s been a journey of learning and constant improvement,” he said.
The AAC in Dubai, however, presented unique challenges. Al Wahaibi finished his two rounds with an identical score of 82 to end at 20 over at the course that presented tough conditions with heat and sultry weather.
He struggled with his driver—a problem he had been facing for months. “Everything else was fine, but the driver was giving me trouble. The course was very long, and taking shorter clubs wasn’t always an option. It was difficult knowing the pressure was on from the first tee,” he admitted.
Despite setbacks, Al Wahaibi found inspiration in his fellow competitor, Azzan Al Rumhy.
“He’s a very good person and a great teammate, not just on the course but off it as well. He’s inspired young players like me and shows what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Al Wahaibi said.
Their camaraderie, both on and off the course, has been a key source of support.
His preparation includes regular sessions with national coach Jonathan Bartlett of South Africa. “Having that guidance is invaluable,” Al Wahaibi noted.
Beyond the technical aspects, Al Wahaibi recognises the personal growth of golf fosters. “Golf teaches patience, resilience, and focus. You face challenges repeatedly, and you have to find solutions. These are lessons that stay with you beyond the course,” he said.
Family and financial support have also played a vital role in his journey. “I want to thank my family, especially my mother, who supported me throughout my journey. My siblings and friends also cheer me on when I compete. I am grateful to Al Manar Financial Investments who have believed in me and I appreciate their backing. Their support makes a big difference,” he added.
The golfer said that the efforts of Oman Golf Association (OGA) are “helping the game move in the right direction” and thanked the OGA board for their support and guidance.
Al Wahaibi now looks forward to upcoming tournaments, including competitions in Saudi Arabia, the Black Tee Challenge in Al Mouj, and the UAE Cup. Each event is an opportunity to gain experience and sharpen his competitive edge.
As he sets his sights on the AAC in New Zealand next year, Al Wahaibi’s message is clear: setbacks are temporary, lessons are lasting, and pride in representing one’s nation is always worth the effort. “Next year, I will put in a lot of work and make sure I am ready to make the cut,” he said, eyes firmly on the future.
