Rory McIlroy is off to a flying start in his quest for a fourth consecutive Race to Dubai title, posting an impressive six-under 66 in the opening round of the DP World Tour Championship in the United Arab Emirates. The Northern Irish golfing superstar currently sits joint-third, just two strokes behind leader Michael Kim from the United States.

McIlroy’s Confident Opening Round

McIlroy, who boasts six Race to Dubai titles in his illustrious career, began his round with three consecutive birdies, setting the tone for what could be a historic season. His performance was highlighted by sharp approach play and precise wedge shots, which the four-time major winner described as “probably one of the best approach-play rounds I’ve had in a long time.”

Despite the strong start, McIlroy admitted he had “left a few out there,” missing a couple of short putts. Nevertheless, his six-under round positions him well to challenge for his seventh Race to Dubai crown. With a commanding 767-point lead atop the season-long rankings, McIlroy is firmly in control of the European Tour’s premier competition.

Fleetwood and Kim Challenge at the Top

Joining McIlroy near the top of the leaderboard is his Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who carded a seven-under 65 to take second place. Fleetwood’s back-nine surge, including five birdies over six holes, showcased his strong driving and precise iron play. “Drove it as good as I’ve driven it all year… it was a really good driving day,” Fleetwood commented on his round.

Leading the leaderboard is Michael Kim, who opened with eight-under, demonstrating exceptional consistency and composure on the challenging Emirates golf course.

Only Hatton and Penge Can Threaten McIlroy

Among the field, only English duo Tyrrell Hatton and Marco Penge remain realistic threats to McIlroy’s Race to Dubai ambitions. However, after the opening round, they sit far back at joint-22nd and joint-46th respectively, leaving McIlroy with a clear path toward another season-long title.

McIlroy Eyes Historic Seventh Race to Dubai Title

With the DP World Tour Championship underway, McIlroy’s focus remains on closing out the tournament and further cementing his legacy on the European Tour. If successful, he would extend his record, claiming a seventh Race to Dubai title, and reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s most consistent and dominant players.

The tournament promises thrilling golf in the coming days, with fans eagerly watching whether McIlroy can maintain his composure and continue his march toward the 2025 Race to Dubai crown.