Monday 18 January 2016 17:06, UK
Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth have both confirmed they will compete in the Northern Trust Open in California next month.
McIlroy's first appearance on the PGA Tour this year will be his debut at the historic Riviera Country Club in the final event of the West Coast Swing, and he will then head to Florida for the Honda Classic.
The four-time major champion also goes head-to-head with world No 1 Spieth in Abu Dhabi this week, and Northern Trust Open organisers are delighted that the pair have committed to their tournament.
Chairman and chief executive officer Frederick H Waddell said: "We're thrilled to welcome Rory McIlroy to the Northern Trust Open field for the first time, as well as world No 1 Jordan Spieth.
"There are so many strong, young players with compelling storylines ready to tee it up at Riviera this year; it's going to be a fantastic event."
McIlroy usually plays in Abu Dhabi and Dubai on the European Tour before beginning his PGA Tour season at the Honda Classic, but he is relishing his first trip to the iconic Los Angeles venue having added it to his schedule.
"I'm very excited that the Northern Trust Open is in my schedule for the first time," said McIlroy. "I've heard so many positive things about the tournament and the exceptional quality of the course.
"Many legends of the game have played and won at this iconic venue throughout its long history, so I'm really looking forward to visiting LA and experiencing Riviera for myself."
Spieth consolidated his position at the top of the world rankings with a dominant eight-shot victory at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions in Hawaii earlier this month, and he has fond memories of playing at Riviera.
The 22-year-old was part of the University of Texas team that won the NCAA Championships there in 2012, and he was tied for fourth in last year's Northern Trust Open following a 12th place finish the previous season.
"This tournament means a lot to me," said Spieth during the tournament last year. "I think this is one of the greatest golf courses in the world. This event is one that I owe a lot back to.
"It was a great experience getting the PGA Tour start that then helped our team win the NCAA Championship that year. We got some good insight on pin locations and how it would play. It's dear to my heart."
