Fitzpatrick beats McIlroy in Dubai; Rory takes the Race to Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Rory McIlroy’s stellar year culminated in another dramatic episode on Sunday, although this time he couldn’t savor the outright victory. McIlroy, with an outstanding performance, achieved an eagle on the last hole to force a playoff. However, Matt Fitzpatrick prevailed, winning the World Golf Championship for the third time. Despite not taking the title, McIlroy secured his fourth consecutive title in the Race to Dubai, solidifying himself as the best European player of the year. This achievement adds to his victories at the Masters, completing the career Grand Slam, the Players Championship, and the Irish Open. His most important individual victories were in tiebreakers, but this time, luck was not on his side. On the first playoff hole, the 18th, his initial shot ended up in a stream, resulting in a bogey. Fitzpatrick, for his part, secured a par, ensuring the victory.

Obviously, you never like how things end, but I am delighted.

Matt Fitzpatrick

McIlroy generated great excitement by achieving an eagle from 15 feet on the 18th hole, completing a round of 67 strokes and tying with Fitzpatrick. This result marks McIlroy’s seventh title in the Race to Dubai, surpassing Seve Ballesteros and approaching Colin Montgomerie’s record.

I didn’t dream of getting this far, so it’s great.

Rory McIlroy

McIlroy revealed that he spoke with Ballesteros’ wife before his Sunday round. The player added that he hopes to surpass Montgomerie in the future.

The competition in the Earth Course was intense, with several players leading or sharing the lead. Fitzpatrick achieved three birdies in his last five holes to surpass McIlroy and other European stars. A 6-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole gave Fitzpatrick a lead over Fleetwood, Åberg and Canter, and two strokes over McIlroy, who needed an eagle to tie. McIlroy hit an impressive shot from 230 yards, setting the stage for his eagle and the subsequent playoff. Fitzpatrick, US Open champion in 2022, had a slow start to the season but finished strong. His performance secured him a place on the Ryder Cup team.

Turning it around in the summer like I did and having a Ryder Cup like I had, I feel like it’s hard to top given everything.

Matt Fitzpatrick