DUBAI: World No. 2 Rory McIlroy on Wednesday kickstarted his quest for another title at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic with a display of driving skills from the top of the Atlantis The Royal on Palm Jumeirah.
The 2023 defending champion is searching for his fourth Dallah trophy with the Rolex Series event — the region’s longest-running golf tournament — starting at Emirates Golf Club on Thursday.
The Northern Irishman’s drive not only set the stage for the weekend action but also delivered a spectacular hole-in-one. McIlroy, triumphant on the Majlis course in 2009, 2015 and 2023, aims to become the first four-time winner.
Returning to the city he once called home, McIlroy said: “I’m thrilled to be back on the Majlis this weekend, a course filled with cherished memories, especially from last year’s triumphant finish. Dubai holds a special place in my heart, and the dynamic evolution of the city is truly awe-inspiring. The view from where we stand is a testament to that, and I am really looking forward to this weekend’s event.”
McIlroy will face an elite field including Major winners Padraig Harrington and Francesco Molinari, world No. 9 and reigning Open Champion Brian Harman, as well as fellow Ryder Cup-winning teammates Luke Donald, Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrrell Hatton.
