DP World PGTI's 72 The League: 16-Year-Old Kartik Singh and 61-Year-Old Mukesh Kumar Showcase Unique Appeal

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Greater Noida, Feb 27: The DP World PGTI's innovative team event 72 The League powered by IndusInd Bank has brought together two generations of Indian golf, with 16-year-old Kartik Singh and 61-year-old Mukesh Kumar embodying the tournament's distinctive charm.

Kartik, widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Indian golf, is the youngest participant in the field and represents Mumbai Aces. Mukesh, a veteran of the domestic circuit and the oldest player in the event, turns out for Kolkata Classics.

Despite the 45-year age gap, both golfers share a deep mutual respect and enthusiasm for the new team-based format introduced by the DP World PGTI.

Mutual Respect Across Generations

Mukesh was effusive in his praise for the teenage prodigy, noting the maturity in Kartik's game.
"The way this boy plays, he will create a lot of mayhem very soon. He doesn't look like a rookie; he looks like someone from the winners' category," he said.

Kartik returned the compliment, highlighting Mukesh's longevity and mental strength.
"I hope I can play golf like him when I am 61. The fact that he still makes cuts shows how competitive he is," the youngster remarked.

Their potential head-to-head clash is one of the many narratives that underline the inclusive nature of the league, where experience meets youth in a team environment.

Strong Start for Kartik, Determined Mukesh

Kartik has already made an impression in the tournament, holding in-form American Jhared Hack to a hard-fought halve in singles. Hack, who recently won the SECL Chhattisgarh Open with a final-round 59, is among the top performers on the tour this season.

Mukesh, meanwhile, may have lost his opening singles match but remains confident about contributing through his short game and consistency.
"I may be 20-30 yards behind these youngsters, but I can still make par on any hole. In team golf, that reliability helps your partner," he said.

A Format That Blends Generations

Both players emphasised the importance of the new league in the evolution of Indian professional golf. Mukesh reflected on the journey of the tour from modest prize purses in the 1980s to multi-crore events today, calling the team format a positive step for players and stakeholders alike.

For Kartik, the event offers invaluable learning in a collaborative setting. Having previously competed in team competitions such as the Bonallack Trophy, he relishes the opportunity to share knowledge and build camaraderie with fellow professionals.

Tournament Schedule

After the opening phase at Classic Golf & Country Resort, the event will continue there for the next two rounds on March 2 and 3, before the final at Qutab Golf Club on March 6.

Launched by the DP World PGTI in partnership with Game of Life Sports (GOLS), 72 The League represents a significant shift towards a more dynamic, team-oriented structure in Indian golf-one that allows teenagers and veterans to compete on equal footing.