Just two years ago, Frenchman Víctor Dubuisson announced his retirement from professional golf at the age of 33. A two-time champion of the Turkish Airlines Open and a prominent member of the European team at the Ryder Cup 2014, Dubuisson decided to end his career due to the emotional strain of the lifestyle on the tour.
Without major announcements and unexpectedly, he returned to competition last week. His comeback in the Alps Tour was a spectacular triumphant return.
In the event held at Golf de Biarritz Le Phare, Dubuisson scored rounds of 62, 65, and 61 to finish at -19, tying at the top with Spaniard Jorge Maicas. Both reached the playoff, and it was the Frenchman who secured the decisive birdie on the second extra hole. A spectacular return after not competing officially since playing the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth back in September 2023
Although he was entitled to a cheque of around €7,600 for being the top finisher, Dubuisson decided to forgo a cheque that was handed to runner-up Jorge Maicas. Victor was not seeking money, but simply to compete again and feel that love for golf once more.
The Frenchman who reached the number one amateur ranking in 2009 and was one of the great promises of European golf, always stood out for his spontaneous and creative style, especially in the short game. In his first European title in 2013 in Turkey, he prevailed over others including Tiger Woods.
Although his talent was beyond doubt, the emotional toll of life on tour eventually took its toll. “The loneliness had become extremely difficult,” he confessed when announcing he wanted to dedicate himself to other things, away from the professional schedule.
The victory raises a question. Will this be a one-off return or the first step of a new phase? Dubuisson has not confirmed his future plans, but the result has sparked interest in whether he will compete again at the highest level.
Since his retirement, he has been working as a coach in Tenerife and leading a quieter life. The victory in Biarritz shows that the talent remains intact, and that his relationship with golf, although complex, is still alive. A year ago, he mentioned in an interview with colleagues from The Bunkered that he was happy coaching and had no intention of returning to compete regularly… We must wait to see if the new Victor has changed his mind.
