From the desert

MAKING HISTORY

Rory McIlroy won a record-breaking fourth Hero Dubai Desert Classic as he successfully defended his title at Emirates Golf Club.

MAKING HISTORY

Rory McIlroy won a record-breaking fourth Hero Dubai Desert Classic as he successfully defended his title at Emirates Golf Club.

The Northern Irishman claimed a maiden Rolex Series crown at this event 12 months ago but came into the weekend 10 shots back before a stunning third-round 63 put him into the final group on Sunday. He then turned a two-shot deficit into a four-shot lead with six holes to play before a bogey on the 13th gave the chasing Adrian Meronk and Cameron Young a glimmer of hope. Meronk cut the lead to one as he signed for a 71 but McIlroy held his nerve down the stretch and carded a 70 for a 14-under-par total and a one-shot win.

The win took McIlroy past Ernie Els’ hat-trick of Desert Classic victories and handed him his third Rolex Series triumph, having won three of the last five blue riband events. He also became just the second player to successfully defend this title after Stephen Gallacher lifted the Dallah Trophy in 2013 and 2014, and made it six wins in Dubai with his two victories at the DP World Tour Championship.

After his win, McIlroy summed up the experience: “Just to think about 18 years ago, and what it meant to come here and play at this event ... to be sitting here, having won it four times and all the great experiences I’ve had in Dubai, and the friends I’ve met and everything along the way. It’s always been a place I come back to and reminisce about in my career because I really feel like it’s where everything started.

“The first Desert Classic, I took a media credential and walked inside the ropes to follow Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and Thomas Bjørn, and then just to think about the arc of that: Thomas was my Ryder Cup Captain; I ended up buying Ernie’s house and I’ve become really good friends with Tiger. It’s just amazing to think back on the past 18 years and of where I find myself.

“I certainly don’t take anything for granted, and I always appreciate the opportunity to be able to do what I do.”

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is a prestigious event on the professional golf calendar, and in January it once again provided spectators with an incredible four days of great golf and a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship, all surrounded by Dubai's dynamic landscape.

As a fortunate spectator, I had the privilege of witnessing world-class golfers competing at one of the region’s most iconic tournaments when I attended the final day of the tournament. The sound of driver on ball can’t be beaten when those teeing off are the likes of Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood.

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic took place at the magnificent Emirates Golf Club, a venue renowned for its challenging Majlis Course and stunning surroundings. As I approached the course, there was certainly a sense of excitement and anticipation. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens, framed by the futuristic Dubai skyline, create an incredible backdrop and almost a cauldron effect.

The tournament has a history of attracting the biggest names in golf, and this year was no exception. McIlroy and Fleetwood, who is almost considered a hometown boy by the Dubai golfers, were joined by other renowned players like Adrian Meronk, in one of his last tournaments before joining LIV Golf, and the young Rasmus Højgaard. The calibre of competition was evident from the first tee shot, as players pounded the ball huge distances down the fairway.

The day was marked by a series of spectacular shots and unforgettable moments that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. Long drives, precise iron shots, and clutch putts created an atmosphere charged with excitement. The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is known for its enthusiastic and diverse gallery, and this weekend was no different. The cheers and applause could be heard from all over the course as the knowledgeable fans showed their appreciation.

The way the DP World Tour event was run added to it being so memorable. The organisation and hospitality were superb, with the tournament organisers ensuring the overall experience went beyond the fairways.

Being a spectator at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic was truly an unforgettable experience. As the tournament concluded, I was left with cherished memories, a deeper appreciation for the sport and a newfound desire to return next year, not just for the one day but for all four!

DP WORLD TOUR/GETTY IMAGES/PAUL STUBBS/HERO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC