Garcia and Harrington confirmed at Abu Dhabi Golf Championship

Sergio Garcia and Padraig Harrington have confirmed that that will be competing in next year’s Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.

The US$2 million tournament represents the perfect opportunity to start the year strongly in what is already looking like a strong field.  

Harrington and Garcia were below their best at the Ryder Cup in September, but Garcia won last week’s Castello Masters, and Harrington still harbours hopes of topping the European Tour Order of Merit.  

Promising young German and Ryder Cup nearly-man Martin Kaymer, will also be there to defend his title.

Faisal al-Sheikh of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority said: "We are delighted to have in our field two of the top-five ranked players in the world and we are sure of some thrilling golf when the tournament takes place."

And Harrington, now a three-time Major winner, said: "I've done quite nicely in Abu Dhabi in the past. I like the course and I do feel it's one I'm competitive on.

"The last couple of times, I was just starting my season there, but I am focusing hard on my preparation and I think when I come to Abu Dhabi in January, I'll be ready with my 'A' game."

Several other big names are expected to join Harrington and Garcia before the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship tees off on January 15 2009.