Adrian Otaegui has switched his nationality from Spain to the United Arab Emirates, setting his sights on winning an Olympic medal.
Born in San Sebastián, the 32-year-old turned professional in 2011 and has won five titles on the DP World Tour since first earning his card through the Qualifying School.
Otaegui has resided in the UAE for 13 years and will begin representing his new nation worldwide at next week’s Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa.
Speaking at a press conference in Dubai on Tuesday, he said: "The UAE is my home. 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."
Otaegui will collaborate with the Emirates Golf Federation to provide training and technical support to players.
"At the same time, I feel that young Emirati golfers need a role model to inspire them to develop and enhance their skills," he added.
"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."
Otaegui, who finished 34th on last season's Race to Dubai Rankings as he played his way to the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, won his most recent DP World Tour title at the Volvo China Open in May.
He is the second golfer to switch their international allegiance to the UAE in as many years after English-born Challenge Tour member Joshua Grenville-Wood opted to become an Emirati.
