Sorenstam signs up for inaugural Dubai event

DUBAI, June 27 (Reuters) World number one Annika Sorenstam will make her competitive debut in the West Asia later this year after the Swede signed up for inaugural Dubai Ladies Masters, event organisers said today.

The winner of 80 titles, including nine majors, Sorenstam will join a field of 120 players at the 500,000 euro (629,800 dollars) Ladies European Tour competition to be played at the Emirates Golf Club's Majlis course from October 26-29.

''It would be a fun to play in a city where the Dubai Desert Classic has become a huge attraction with leading players on the European PGA Tour,'' Sorenstam said in a statement released by the organisers.

''If the first Dubai Ladies Masters can contribute in spawning a new interest among local girls, which I am sure it will, it would be a bonus.'' Reuters PM DB1258