Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy smiles as he holds the trophy after securing his sixth DP World Tour Championship victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. - AFP
With his sixth DP World Tour Championship now under his belt, Rory McIlroy is already setting his sights on future challenges as he continues to elevate his remarkable career. His latest victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates, which also earned him his sixth Race to Dubai title, marks yet another significant milestone in a career brimming with extraordinary achievements. However, the affable Northern Irishman, who first captivated local fans with his natural talent in 2011, shows no signs of slowing down. Reflecting on his recent success, McIlroy acknowledged the importance of his win but swiftly shifted his focus to what lies ahead.
"Achieving six wins here, and three in a row, is something I’m immensely proud of," he said. "But who knows, I might aim for eight or nine. As long as the Race to Dubai continues, I’ll be here. I’ve got at least another 10 years in me, and I’ll keep striving for more."
After a year filled with triumphs and close calls, McIlroy’s accomplishments in 2024 are indisputable. Yet, the Northern Irishman’s ambitions are firmly fixed on surpassing Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight wins. "I’m always thinking about what’s next," McIlroy stated with determination. "I’ve got plenty more golf to play, and I want to continue competing at the highest level. The coming years promise to be exciting."
Though McIlroy deserves a well-earned rest after a demanding year, he’s already anticipating his return to the fairways in 2025—with even loftier goals in mind. His triumph in Dubai saw him match the legendary Seve Ballesteros’ record of six titles, an achievement that deeply moved him and brought tears to his eyes. After a year in which he narrowly missed out on a Major victory, his win in Dubai was a powerful affirmation.
As he stood on the 18th green, the setting sun casting a warm glow, McIlroy was reminded of the profound significance of his achievement—and of the man whose record he had just equalled. "I think about what Seve meant to the game, this tour, and the European Ryder Cup team," McIlroy reflected emotionally after his victory. "We sit in the locker room at the Ryder Cup, and the walls are adorned with Seve’s quotes. To think that my name is now alongside his—that’s something I’ll never take for granted."
It’s clear that McIlroy, a former resident of Dubai, holds a deep affection for the city and feels a special connection with the UAE. Over the years, Dubai has consistently been a happy hunting ground for the 35-year-old, where he has not only won the DP World Tour Championship multiple times but also claimed the HERO Dubai Desert Classic on four occasions. "I lived here for four years early in my career. I was a resident. I love this part of the world. I always have. As I said, I was fortunate enough to receive an invite to the HERO Dubai Desert Classic in 2006 as an amateur," McIlroy reminisced.
"This region has been a huge part of my career, and it’s always wonderful to return. The people here are amazing. There have been many fond memories along the way. I love coming back here, and I have many friends, and I make it a point to return as often as I can."
While McIlroy had previously expressed disappointment over not winning a Major in 2024, he quickly put his achievements into perspective. "I’ve had a solid season. Four wins—three individual victories, including two in Dubai, plus a win with Shane Lowry at the Zurich Classic. But I know people will remember my year for the Majors I didn’t win," he said.
Despite the pressure of the final holes on Sunday, where McIlroy had to dig deep to secure his win, he remained philosophical. He surged ahead of Rasmus Højgaard with a remarkable wedge shot to just a foot on the 16th hole, converting it into a birdie. McIlroy then sealed the win with a 3-under 69, securing a two-shot victory over the Dane, who earlier this year edged McIlroy to win the Irish Open at Royal County Down GC, in Northern Ireland.
"This year has been emotionally draining, but I’m incredibly happy with where I am in my career and my life. I feel like everything has worked out as it should," he added. For now, McIlroy can enjoy a well-deserved break before he returns to action in 2025—but not before savoring the sweet joy of yet another unforgettable victory in Dubai.
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