McIlroy returns to defend DP World Tour Championship title
The Northern Irishman delivered a masterclass in control and shot-making to claim his third DP World Tour Championship victory in 2024, sealing a record-equalling sixth Race to Dubai title to sit alongside the legendary Seve Ballesteros and further cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in Tour history.
The 36-year-old has moved into joint second place for the most Race to Dubai victories and now sits two behind Colin Montgomerie, as he bids to add another European Number One crown to his already impressive career.
The renowned Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates has been a prosperous venue for the world number two, who has won the DP World Tour Championship in 2012, 2015 and 2024 and topped the season-long standings in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2022, 2023, and 2024. McIlroy also has four additional victories in Dubai, and the Masters Champion currently leads the Race to Dubai Rankings ahead of Tyrrell Hatton by 1,109.51 points.
He will spend two weeks in the UAE following confirmation that he will also tee it up at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship — the first event of the DP World Tour Play-Offs — qualifying for both season-ending events thanks to that thrilling victory at Augusta National, a fourth-place finish at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, a tied runner up finish at the Genesis Scottish Open, and tied seventh at The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
'Dubai has always been a special place for me,' said McIlroy. 'Winning both the DP World Tour Championship and the Race to Dubai last year was an incredible way to finish the season. To equal Seve's record made it even more special. I've played some great golf this year and I'm looking forward to finishing strong again in front of the fans at Jumeirah Golf Estates.'
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is the first event of the DP World Tour's end of season showpiece, leading straight into the DP World Tour Championship where the Race to Dubai champion will be crowned. The top 70 available players at the conclusion of the Back 9 events will gather in Abu Dhabi for the fourth Rolex Series event of the year, with the top 50 teeing it up at the DP World Tour Championship as the season comes to a close in Dubai.
McIlroy became the first European to win the career grand slam earlier this year when he added a Green Jacket to his four previous Major victories at the 2011 US Open, the US PGA Championship in 2012 and 2014 and The Open in 2014. He will look to clinch a fourth successive Race to Dubai title when he returns to the Middle East in November and a seventh Harry Vardon Trophy in total.
Following record weekend crowds last year, free general admission tickets for Thursday and Friday are now available at dpwtc.com.
The DP World Tour Championship also offers a fantastic day out for all, combining world-class golf with an array of exciting activities and experiences. The vibrant village ensures an incredible atmosphere, featuring dedicated activations for children, free golf lessons for all ages, Ladies Day celebrations, trick-shot shows, large screens for enhanced viewing, and engaging sports activations.
Fans seeking an elevated experience can choose from a range of premium hospitality options. The Championship Chalet, situated on the 18th green, offers an exclusive vantage point to observe the thrilling conclusion of each round. The Earth Lounge, overlooking the 16th green, provides a chic and comfortable setting to relax and enjoy the action.
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