HERO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC

January 24, 2026

David Puig

Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club

Press Conference

Q. That's a pretty successful moving day. Just try and describe your day in your own words.

DAVID PUIG: Well, yeah, it was a great day from start to finish, and obviously played really well on the front nine. Saved a great par on 8, and you know, birdie on 9 to that pin is a real bonus.

And 11, hit one of the worst shots of my life, and you know, managed to hit good putts really fast, which allowed me to finish well.

Q. Off to a great start today, as well. What was the mindset going out there?

DAVID PUIG: Obviously try to attack a little bit. We were a little behind, and seeing Patrick Reed and all the guys that are up there are really good players, so I know I needed a good one. Still a little behind but it's going really well. But hopefully, you know, tomorrow we have a good chance.

Q. You progressively got better with your scores each day this week. Do you feel like the cobwebs are slightly coming off your game and you're getting better each day?

DAVID PUIG: Yeah, probably. I mean, the first day was definitely a tougher day, the toughest day with the wind. But yeah, I hit it really well today, and besides, that tee shot, I think I played really good golf.

So yeah just getting a little more comfortable with the place, I guess, and picking my spots a little better.

Q. This place is renowned for comeback wins on the final day. You're going to have to do that tomorrow it looks like. What will be the key as you try to head out there and win this golf tournament?

DAVID PUIG: Just try and hit fairways and greens to be honest. Just try to put the ball in the fairway as much as I can, and from there, try to be as aggressive as I can. There's some holes and positions where you need to be a little more conservative, and yeah, I mean, try to stick to that. Hopefully make a bunch of birdies.