The world of professional golf can be a relentless grind, demanding constant travel, intense pressure, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of perfection. For some, the allure of the green eventually fades, replaced by a yearning for something different, something more fulfilling. This seems to be the case for former Ryder Cup champion Victor Dubuisson, who has traded the fairways for a new career path that aligns more closely with his personal passions.
Dubuisson, a Frenchman celebrated for his exceptional talent and contributions to Team Europe's Ryder Cup victory in 2014, made the surprising decision to step away from professional golf two years ago. While many speculated about his future, the answer was far from the expected. He chose a path that allowed him to stay connected to the game he loved, but in a way that offered a different kind of satisfaction and lifestyle.
Instead of pursuing further tournament victories or endorsements, Dubuisson embraced a role as a travel agent in Tenerife, a beautiful island in the Canary Islands. This might seem like a radical departure from the glamorous world of professional golf, but it represents a conscious decision to prioritize personal fulfillment and a different kind of connection with the sport.
While he initially retired from the professional circuit, the competitive fire still flickered within him. Earlier this year, Dubuisson briefly emerged from retirement to experience the thrill of competition once more. However, his return wasn't motivated by financial gain but by the desire to recapture the unique winning feeling that only golf can provide.
This fleeting return highlights a crucial distinction: Dubuisson's decision to step back from full-time professional golf wasn't necessarily a rejection of the sport itself, but rather a reevaluation of his priorities. He sought a way to stay involved in golf on his own terms, prioritizing mentorship and personal well-being over the relentless pursuit of championships.
Currently, Dubuisson works as a travel agent, crafting bespoke training packages for golfers at the Abama Golf resort in Tenerife. This role allows him to combine his passion for golf with his love for travel and his desire to help others improve their game. He couldn't be happier with this new chapter in his life.
Abama Golf, a luxury resort in Tenerife, provides the perfect setting for Dubuisson's new endeavor. He emphasizes the resort's exceptional facilities, boasting an "amazing academy, a 350-yard range, wedging area," confidently stating, "It’s the best place I’ve seen in my life for practicing." This environment allows him to impart his knowledge and experience to aspiring golfers in an idyllic setting.
The resort's comprehensive facilities provide ample opportunities for golfers of all skill levels to hone their abilities. From the expansive driving range to the specialized wedging area, every aspect of the practice experience is designed to help players refine their technique and improve their performance.
Dubuisson finds immense satisfaction in sharing his expertise with others. "I spend time with many different people every week and I’ve made many new friends," he reveals. This interaction with diverse individuals allows him to not only impart his golfing knowledge but also to build meaningful connections and expand his social circle.
The opportunity to forge lasting relationships with his clients is a significant aspect of Dubuisson's new career. "When you spend a week with people you get to know them," he explains. This immersive approach allows him to understand his clients' individual needs and tailor his training programs accordingly.
The transition from professional golfer to travel agent has brought about a profound change in Dubuisson's life. "I’ve met many, many people and it’s a completely different life," he reflects. This shift has allowed him to experience new perspectives, broaden his horizons, and find fulfillment in a different kind of challenge.
In stark contrast to his current lifestyle, Dubuisson's previous life was defined by the pressures and demands of professional golf. He achieved remarkable success, securing four titles on the European Tour. A particularly memorable victory was at the 2013 Turkish Open, where he triumphed over some of the sport's top players to claim his first professional win.
His victory at the Turkish Open marked a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the world of golf. This achievement demonstrated his exceptional talent and his ability to perform under pressure, setting the stage for further success on the European Tour.
The Ryder Cup, a biennial golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States, is one of the most prestigious and fiercely contested events in the sport. The 45th Ryder Cup is scheduled to take place from September 26-28, with the US team eager to reclaim the crown from Europe.
The competition promises to be intense, with Scottie Scheffler leading the American side against Rory McIlroy's European team in New York. The infamous Bethpage Black course will serve as the venue for this highly anticipated tournament.
For viewers in the United States, NBC will provide comprehensive coverage of the Ryder Cup. The Friday foursomes and fourballs matches will be broadcast live on the USA Network from 7 am ET to 6 pm ET.
Saturday's action will continue during the same hours, also broadcast live on NBC. The Sunday singles matches will air on NBC from 12 pm ET to 6 pm ET, ensuring that viewers don't miss a single moment of the thrilling competition.
Golf enthusiasts can access live streams and on-demand coverage of the Ryder Cup through NBC's channels. This provides a convenient way to follow the tournament from anywhere.
Dubuisson's contribution to Team Europe's Ryder Cup victory in 2014 was substantial. He earned 2.5 points for the team, drawing with Zach Johnson in the singles rounds. His performance played a crucial role in helping Europe defend their title following the "Miracle at Medinah" two years prior.
The 2014 Ryder Cup holds a special place in Dubuisson's heart. When asked about his career highlight, he unequivocally stated, "The Ryder Cup, for sure. It was amazing, the feeling of playing the Ryder Cup."
He further emphasized the unique nature of the Ryder Cup, explaining, "It’s a completely different tournament. I won in Turkey, played many majors, played well at the US PGA in Valhalla, made many top-tens, but this was completely different."
Dubuisson described the heightened pressure associated with the Ryder Cup. "You feel much more stress, but it’s a good stress. I was very nervous the day before starting but when you’re on the course you don’t feel nervous," he revealed.
He elaborated on the intense focus required during the competition. "You are in your small bubble and you focus. The day before it was difficult to sleep. It’s completely different than playing for ourselves," he added. The Ryder Cup demands a level of teamwork and collective responsibility that is uncommon in the individualistic world of professional golf.
In conclusion, Dubuisson summarized the unique emotional intensity of the Ryder Cup: "It’s the best feeling, but it can be the worst feeling if you miss. The feeling is multiplied because you play for a team. We are not used to it in golf." His experiences highlight the profound impact of team play and the heightened emotions that come with representing something larger than oneself in the world of professional sports.