Indian golfing icon Jeev Milkha Singh has praised the leadership of Kapil Dev, the current president of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), for his efforts in advancing the careers of professional golfers in the country.
Singh, who has an illustrious career on the PGA Tour, recently spoke highly of the cricket legend’s contribution to the sport. He highlighted the significant strides made by PGTI under Dev’s guidance, particularly the announcement of a packed calendar for the first half of 2025.
With 11 consecutive weeks of competitions across various venues, the number of events has increased substantially compared to the nine competitions in 2024, a clear indicator of the growth of professional golf in India.
Singh emphasized Kapil Dev’s deep understanding of sports and athletes, saying, “Kapil Dev is a sportsman. He can feel for the other athletes.” Singh is optimistic that under Dev's leadership, golf in India will continue to grow, bringing more awareness and visibility to the game.
He acknowledged the rising talent in Indian golf, noting that many golfers are now making a mark on the international circuit due to their superior knowledge of equipment and fitness.
As golf continues to gain popularity in India, Singh stressed the need for further initiatives to nurture young talent. He suggested that the government should focus on building more public golf courses and driving ranges to allow youngsters access to the sport.
Despite challenges such as land scarcity, Singh believes that establishing golf academies in areas as small as 10 acres would provide invaluable opportunities for children to explore the sport.
Currently, India has only three public driving ranges, which limits access to the game. According to Singh, the creation of more public facilities would not only give children the chance to develop their skills but would also promote the sport at grassroots levels.
Singh urged the government to take this step, adding that it is essential for the sport's future.
Singh’s appeal is rooted in the belief that increasing the number of public driving ranges will help create a cycle of growth in the sport. With access to training facilities, young athletes can receive the necessary support and guidance to excel in golf.
However, Singh also highlighted that talent alone is not enough, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication from both the child and their parents.
Looking ahead, Jeev Milkha Singh is preparing for a busy competitive season. He is set to participate in the International Series Asian Tour at DLF at the end of the month, before shifting his focus to Morocco for the Champions Tour, part of the PGA.
Despite a recent dog bite on his hand, Singh is determined to continue his training and participation in upcoming events, including a European competition. His resilience and commitment to the sport are a testament to his passion for golf and his continued contribution to the game, both on the field and off it.
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