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From dumped bubble buster to celebrated two-time winner, new Dubai Duty Free Irish Open champion John Catlin is set to be a central character in the European Tour’s season finale at Jumeirah Golf Estates in December

- KENT GRAY

HE’S THE PANTOMIME VILLAIN MADE GOOD. Indeed, the way this (hopefully) never to be repeated Race to Dubai season has transpired anything but to script thus far, don’t be surprised if John Catlin goes from suddenly charming support act to a leading role by the time the final curtain falls at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

The 29-year-old American was an unknown character to most until being slapped with a “forced WD” at the English Championship in August after breaking the European Tour’s COVID-19 protocols. That ill-considered meal out with his caddie, at a restaurant outside the tour’s course and designated hotel bubble, could have been all she wrote in 2020.

But Catlin, immediately repentant for his “error of judgement”, quietly went about ensuring a far more positive narrative will accompany him to the UAE in December.