Kapil Dev Backs Indian Golfers to Make Strong Impact at Asian Games

NEW DELHI, SEPTEMBER 29 : DP World Professional Golf Tour of India (DP World PGTI) President and former India cricketer Kapil Dev has backed the six-member Indian golf contingent to make a strong impact at the Asian Games in Japan.

The Indian team comprises Yuvraj Sandhu, Saptak Talwar and Veer Ahlawat in the men's section, while Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar and Pranavi Urs will represent India in the women's event.

"Representing India at the Asian Games is the highest honour. I extend my best wishes to Veer, Saptak, Yuvraj, Aditi, Diksha and Pranavi as they prepare to compete for the country in Japan," Kapil said.

"Believe in yourselves, play fearlessly and give it everything you have. The responsibility of representing the country should inspire you to raise your game. Stay focused, trust your preparation and play every shot with pride," he added.

The Indian men's trio will make its Asian Games debut, but all three golfers have considerable international experience.

Yuvraj Sandhu, 29, secured his DP World Tour card after winning the DP World PGTI Order of Merit in 2025. He also created history by becoming the first golfer to win seven titles in a single DP World PGTI season and set a new earnings record of Rs 1,91,67,100.

A 16-time professional winner, Yuvraj said his previous experience of playing in Japan would benefit him at the Games.

"I played in Japan last year, so I have a very fair idea of how the golf courses are. We already have the course mapped out in detail, along with the yardages. I think playing on the DP World Tour has polished my game, so I feel ready to tackle the course," he said.

Veer Ahlawat, 30, is a six-time DP World PGTI winner and the 2024 Order of Merit champion. He also finished joint runner-up at the Hero Indian Open in 2024.

After inspecting the Asian Games course last month, Ahlawat said precision around the greens and wedge control would be crucial.

"The course was short and mostly those are the courses we play here in India. I think the main challenge in Japan is to get your wedges tuned in and spin control will play a major role," he said.

Saptak Talwar, 27, enters the Games as the current No. 1 on the DP World PGTI Order of Merit. The two-time PGTI winner has divided his schedule between the HotelPlanner Tour in Europe and the Indian circuit.

"The goal was to improve my ranking and qualify, and I am proud that one box has been ticked. The next aim is to make the cut for the LA Olympics," Talwar said.

He added that his experience of playing in Europe's rain and windy conditions could prove useful in Japan.

DP World PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl said the men's trio had earned their places through consistent performances and resilience, and expressed confidence in their ability to mount a strong medal challenge.

The Indian golf contingent thus combines established international experience with players making their debut at the continental multi-sport event.