McIlroy makes history: Wins 7° Race to Dubai, surpasses Ballesteros

McIlroy Surpasses Ballesteros and Conquers his Seventh Race to Dubai Title

In a day full of emotions and unexpected twists, Rory McIlroy won his seventh Race to Dubai title, thus surpassing the record of Seve Ballesteros, who held six victories. Despite losing in a playoff against Matt Fitzpatrick at the DP World Tour Championship, the Northern Irishman managed to secure the season championship, solidifying his legacy in European golf.

It’s incredible, I had a conversation with Carmen [Ballesteros’ ex-wife] before going out to play today and she told me how proud he would be. It means a lot to this Tour and to the European Ryder Cup team. We bonded a lot around his spirit and his quotes and everything he meant to European golf. Matching him last year was great, but surpassing him this year, I didn’t go that far in my dreams, so it’s very cool.

Rory McIlroy

McIlroy, who had a promising start in the final round, managed to lead the leaderboard with four under par in the first seven holes. However, Fitzpatrick, with an impeccable round of 66 strokes, placed himself in an advantageous position for the victory. The tiebreaker was inevitable, and although McIlroy achieved an eagle on the final hole to force it, it was Fitzpatrick who took the victory after an exciting definition. Fitzpatrick, for his part, expressed his admiration for McIlroy, highlighting his ability to compete at the highest level. Tommy Fleetwood and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen shared third place, while Tyrrell Hatton, who aspired to snatch the title from McIlroy, finished in 14th position.