The world’s top players are in for their toughest test yet as they prepare for the Turkish Airlines Open at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal in Belek.

Heading the third event of the 2014 Race To Dubai Final Four series in eight members of the victorious European Ryder Cup team – Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Ian Poulter, Martin Kaymer, Lee Westwood, Stephen Gallacher, Jamie Donaldson and defending champion Victor Dubuisson will tee-up in the $7m event from November 13-16.

There have been changes to the Colin Montgomerie-designed  6,516m, par-72 course following last year’s inaugural tournament.

A new back tee has been put in on the third hole, extending it to 367 yards, making driving the green even more of a gamble. The par-five fourth has been improved with extra rough increasing the risk and reward element for those trying to hit the green with their second shots.

The 18th green at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal course and venue for this weeks 2014 Turkish Airlines Open.

The green on the par-three eighth has been extended to allow more pin positions, bringing water more into play. Those tweaks, added to firmer greens, will contribute to what is certain to be a dramatic week next to the Mediterranean.

Montgomerie said: “Although feedback was positive from last year we will never stand still and improvements to the overall experience will always remain a priority.

“The greens will be as firm as nature allows. I cannot wait to play there myself once again.

“I will always be extremely proud that a course I helped create is being used at such a key point in the European Tour calendar.”

Cahit Sahin, GM at the Montgomerie Maxx Royal, said: “We have the course looking really well. The players will find the course tougher than last year.”

Following the Turkish Airlines Open by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the top 60 players in the rankings will move on to the DP World Tour Championship in the United Arab Emirates for the finale to the European Tour season.