DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Rory McIlroy is tied for the lead heading into the final round of the World Tour Championship, aiming to secure a historic sixth Race to Dubai title. The Northern Irish golfer delivered a solid performance on Saturday, finishing with a 4-under 68, tying at 12-under with Denmark’s Rasmus Hojgaard (66) and France’s Antoine Rozner (69).
McIlroy’s Bid for History
McIlroy’s campaign for a sixth Race to Dubai title, previously known as the Order of Merit, could tie him with Seve Ballesteros and place him two titles behind record-holder Colin Montgomerie. Beyond this milestone, McIlroy is chasing his fourth tournament victory of the year, with hopes of holding both the tournament and Race to Dubai trophies on the 18th green come Sunday evening.
“It’s a great opportunity to end the year on a really high note,” McIlroy said. “I’m going to give it everything I can and hopefully stand on that 18th green with both trophies.”
Thrilling Third Round
Rozner, who began the day with a one-stroke lead, maintained his contention with a dramatic eagle putt from 8 feet at the 18th, while Hojgaard birdied six of his first eight holes, displaying an impressive short game. Despite a rocky finish at the last hole, Hojgaard managed to salvage par after taking two drops, calling it a near-disaster that could have been an 8 on the scorecard.
“Looking more like an 8 at some point,” Hojgaard said, reflecting on his recovery.
Sibling Ambitions
Rasmus Hojgaard is vying to follow in the footsteps of his twin brother Nicolai, who won the same event last year. The possibility of back-to-back victories by the Hojgaard brothers adds an intriguing storyline to the final round.
“We talked about it earlier this week, how cool it would be — another Hojgaard defending the title,” Rasmus shared.
Rozner’s Focus
For Antoine Rozner, ranked 154th globally, Sunday represents a chance for his first Race to Dubai title and one of the coveted 10 PGA Tour cards offered by the European tour for the next season. The three-time European Tour winner emphasized his mindset heading into the decisive round.
“My focus is on tomorrow and tomorrow only,” Rozner stated. “I need to put up a good score. That’s the only thing that matters now.”
Hatton’s Turbulent Day
Tyrrell Hatton, who started the day just one stroke off the lead, struggled through a frustrating and expletive-laden round. A missed par putt from under 2 feet on the fourth hole and snapping an iron in frustration at the 14th highlighted his challenging day. Hatton’s emotional outbursts included slamming his putter on the green and vocalizing his anger in moments caught on live TV.
Commentator Ewen Murray criticized Hatton’s conduct, stating, “It’s time for change, I’m afraid. That’s a terrible influence on the next generation.” The European Tour confirmed that Hatton would be fined for violating its code of conduct.
A Tightly Contested Final Round Awaits
McIlroy, Rozner, and Hojgaard hold a slim two-stroke lead over Jesper Svensson (68) and Joaquin Niemann (69). Tyrrell Hatton remains three shots back, despite his tumultuous day.
With McIlroy aiming for historic achievements, Rozner seeking a life-changing victory, and Hojgaard looking to replicate his brother’s success, the stage is set for an electrifying final round.
As McIlroy himself said, “It’s all about leaving it out there on the course. I’m ready to give it my all.” The golfing world will watch closely as these competitors battle for glory in Dubai.
