The 59th edition of the World Cup of Golf will return to Melbourne next year with The Metropolitan Golf Club playing host to 28 two-person teams from November 21-25.

One of five events co-sanctioned by the International Federation of PGA Tours, the World Cup of Golf has been played 58 times in 25 countries since 1953 and is the only event that sees the world’s best come together and compete for their countries outside the Olympic Games. 

"It’s always an incredible honour to be able to play for my country!" tweeted Graeme McDowell, who partnered Shane Lowry to a share of ninth place behind Denmark in Australia two years ago and partners him again this week's season-ending QBE Shootout in Florida.

"Hopeful to get back to Melbourne in 2018 to compete in the  World Cup of Golf again."

"The World Cup of Golf has been a celebrated and valued tradition in the game for decades, and the International Federation of PGA Tours is proud to see that tradition continue in 2018 with the best players from around the globe convening at The Metropolitan Golf Club,” PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan said.

“Golf in the Sandbelt region speaks for itself, and we appreciate The Metropolitan Golf Club opening its doors for this historic team event.”

The highest-ranked player from each competing country will choose his playing partner and the event will continue with the same format from 2016 with fourballs on the first and third days and foursomes on days two and four.