Ladies European Tour stars set for Dubai finale

The Ladies European Tour reaches its climax this week with the season-ending Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, at Emirates Golf Club, boasting a strong international field. Defending champion and world number six Shanshan Feng could make history by becoming the only three-time winner of the event and is already in buoyant mood after taking an unbeatable lead in the battle for the Order of Merit title. The 108-player field, representing 27 countries, boasts a mix of youth and experience and there is no shortage of challengers to Feng's bid for supremacy in the coming days. England's Charley Hull or great dame of golf, Laura Davis are just two star names, while the Danish duo Emily Kristine Pedersen and Nanna Koerstz Madsen are neck and neck in the battle for the Rookie of the Year title. Pedersen, who won the Hero Women’s Indian Open in October, leads with earnings of €164,063, a good €32,434 ahead of Madsen, who needs to finish at least third to have a chance overtaking her compatriot. US college golfer Paige Spiranac has gained celebrity status on social media through her tutorial videos and pictures, has received a special invitation and will compete with the rest of the field for the trophy. And providing a distinct “local” flavour to the event is Morocco’s Maha Haddioui, the first Arab golfer to ply her trade on the Ladies European Tour.