One Shot at a Time: Anca Matheiu's journey from Tiny Tot to chasing big dreams in Dubai

Khaleej Times

20-05-2025

At just 16, Anca Mateiu is living a golfing journey that many only dream of. Born and raised in Romania, now thriving in the UAE, her story is powered by raw talent, deep passion, and an unshakable ambition.
It all began when she was just three or four years old when her father placed a golf club—two sizes too big—into her tiny hands and encouraged her to give it a try.
"They were regular clubs, too big to handle but I felt a spark and everything just went from there," she recalls with a smile. That first swing marked the start of something special. 'In the beginning, it was about playing for my dad because he got me into it. That was important to me.'
That early start laid the groundwork for where she is today. Anca is the 2025 Ladies Club Champion at Emirates Golf Club, proudly represents the UAE National Team on international stages like the Pan Arab and GCC Championships. She's also the 2021 Romanian National Junior Girls Champion—a nod to her roots and a reflection of how far she's come.
Thriving on Dubai Fairways
But it's her time in Dubai that has truly accelerated her growth.
'It's been life-changing,' she says. 'In Romania, I didn't have the opportunity to play that much golf. But over here in Dubai, I've really been able to play the game as much as I can.'
The access to world-class facilities, experienced coaches like Marion Duvernay and the ability to train all year round have all contributed to shaping her game.
Anca trains across three premier courses—Emirates, Jumeirah, and Dubai Hills—while balancing her studies at Kings' School, practice, and tournaments. Though the schedule is demanding, she remains grounded.
'I try not to think too much on the course. I just take it one shot at a time and stay in the moment,' she explains. 'If I get ahead of myself, things don't happen the way I want them to. So I always focus on my routine and aim for the best possible outcome.'
This mindset, along with her unwavering work ethic, has set her apart—not just as a talented golfer, but as someone deeply passionate about the sport asshe pursues her aspirations
'I'd love to turn pro. It's been my dream,' she says with conviction. 'I want to play golf for the rest of my life.'
Pathway to Turning Pro
Her goal is to join the LET Access Tour, and with the continued support of the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), she hopes that day will come sooner rather than later.
Anca holds deep appreciation for those who have championed her journey, especially General Abdullah Alhashmi, Vice Chairman of the EGF.
'He's been incredible,' she says. 'The support from him and the EGF has helped me focus and improve. It's made a huge difference.'
When asked where her allegiance lies—Romania or the UAE—Anca responds thoughtfully. While she hasn't made a definitive decision about which country she wants to represent long-term, she shares that her ties to both are meaningful. 'More UAE right now,' she says.
To young girls in the Middle East dreaming of a golfing future, Anca has a clear message: 'There's so much on offer in Dubai. If you're serious about golf, you have to devote a lot of time to practice. As cheesy as it sounds—try to get one percent better every day. Stay focused, keep practicing, and improvement will come.'
Family Keeps Her Grounded
But more than that, she emphasizes the value of having a solid support system. 'You need people around you who understand what you want from the game. When you don't play well, or things don't go your way, your team—especially your family—is what keeps you going.'
Anca Matheiu is not just one of the UAE's finest young golfers—she's a symbol of what passion and purpose can achieve. With her eyes set on a professional career and a heart full of dreams, every shot she takes now feels like a step toward the future she's always imagined—living her dream on the Pro Tour.