"India Has Huge Golf Potential, But Infrastructure Is Key": IGU Secretary Shashank Sandu Ahead of Hero Indian Open 2026

Add as a preferred source on Google

New Delhi, March 23: With the Hero Indian Open 2026 set to tee off later this week at the DLF Golf and Country Club, the spotlight is not just on the star-studded field but also on the growing ambitions of Indian golf.

In an exclusive interaction ahead of the tournament with myKhel, Indian Golf Union (IGU) Honourary Secretary Shashank Sandu outlined the sport's expanding footprint in the country, the challenges that remain, and why this year's edition could mark another important step forward.

"India Has Untapped Potential in Golf"

Sandu believes golf in India is on the cusp of significant growth, but emphasised that infrastructure remains the biggest hurdle.

"India has got huge potential, but the opportunities have to be created by building infrastructure. With only around 232 golf courses, we are just nibbling at what is actually a much bigger opportunity," Sandu said.

He highlighted how golf stands apart as a sport that spans generations, making it both a recreational and competitive avenue. "It's a game that can be played by a youngster as well as someone even at the age of 80. That makes it unique not just for leisure but also for fitness," he added.

The IGU is optimistic about the future, with new golf courses already in development across India, which could boost both domestic and international golf tourism.

DLF Course Remains a Global Attraction

The DLF Golf and Country Club, long regarded as one of the toughest layouts on the DP World Tour, continues to draw admiration from global stars.

Sandu pointed out that elite players are increasingly eager to test themselves on the challenging Gurugram course designed by legendary Gary Player. "Everyone who has played here wants to come back. Even Rory McIlroy has spoken about wanting to play here. That shows what DLF holds in the minds of top professionals," he revealed.

With such endorsements, the venue remains a key factor in elevating the tournament's global appeal.

Focus on Fans and Grassroots Growth

One of the major priorities for the IGU this year is increasing fan engagement, especially among younger audiences.

The decision to keep entry free for spectators is part of a broader strategy to make the sport more accessible. "We don't want ticketing. We want more people to come, especially youngsters. They should see golfers in action - they can become role models," Sandu said.

He also stressed the role of media in growing the sport's popularity in India. "If you write about the sport and create that aura, more people will follow it. That's how cricket grew - even school matches were reported," he noted.

Structured Pathway for Young Talent

On the development front, Sandu highlighted the structured approach being taken for amateur golfers, particularly through the national squad system. "We look after their physical training, mental conditioning, and biomechanics. It's done scientifically and monitored over a period of years," he explained.

The IGU currently manages a core group of six players, ensuring focused and sustained development rather than short-term interventions.

Young talents continue to benefit from exposure at events like the Hero Indian Open, where they get a chance to compete alongside global stars.

Strong Field Reflects Tournament's Growth

The 2026 edition of the Hero Indian Open features one of its strongest fields in recent years, including Top-100 players, Major champions, and rising global stars.

Sandu acknowledged that the tournament's stature has grown significantly over the years, attracting high-quality participation. He also pointed to the increasing competition for spots, with the field capped at around 130-138 players to ensure smooth scheduling.

"We've slightly increased the field size, but there are limitations because the tournament has to be completed within a specified time," he explained.

Balancing Stakeholders in a Global Event - And A Notable Omission

While the Hero Indian Open 2026 continues to grow in stature, selection dynamics remain a talking point - particularly when it comes to sponsor exemptions and wildcard entries.

Sources informed that legendary Indian golfer SSP Chawrasia, the only and the last Indian to have won the Hero Indian Open at the challenging DLF Golf & Country Club, has not been granted a wildcard entry for this year's edition.

Chawrasia's absence is significant given his legacy and his success at the venue, widely regarded as one of the toughest courses on the DP World Tour. Over the years, several Indian professionals - including Chawrasia himself - have referred to the Hero Indian Open as the "fifth major" due to its demanding nature.

Addressing questions around entries and exemptions, Sandu explained that selections are not unilateral and involve multiple stakeholders. "The sponsor has certain rights, and the DP World Tour also has its own allocations. We need to be mindful of that," Sandu said.

He further added that player participation often depends on field strength and competing priorities. "If top players are coming in, they will naturally get priority. It all depends on the field and the commitments involved," he noted.

A Crucial Moment for Indian Golf

As the Hero Indian Open prepares for its 2026 edition, Sandu believes the tournament remains central to the sport's growth in the country.

From infrastructure expansion to grassroots development and global participation, the IGU sees this as a defining phase for Indian golf.

With a record prize purse, a strong international field, and growing fan engagement initiatives, the Hero Indian Open continues to evolve - not just as a tournament, but as a platform shaping the future of golf in India.