Rory McIlroy began his title defence in the Race to Dubai with a strong performance, trailing Michael Kim by two shots after the first round of the DP World Tour Championship. McIlroy, aiming for a fourth
consecutive title, impressed with a six-under 66, matching Thriston Lawrence and Andy Sullivan to share third place. He arrived in Dubai leading the DP World Tour standings by 767 points, with only Marcus Penge and Tyrrell Hatton capable of surpassing him.
The American golfer, like McIlroy, made three birdies on the front nine. He then added five more from the 10th hole onwards to set an early clubhouse target of eight-under 64. As none of the later starters matched his score, Kim ended the day with a one-shot lead over Tommy Fleetwood. Fleetwood continued his impressive form by carding a 65.
McIlroy started with three consecutive birdies and maintained momentum to keep Kim within reach. "Rory shoots his best opening round at the Earth Course since 2021," noted DP World Tour on Twitter. A solo second-place finish would secure McIlroy's seventh Race to Dubai victory, regardless of other results.
Marcus Penge needs at least a three-way tie for second to challenge McIlroy but struggled with a two-over 74, placing him tied-46th. Meanwhile, Tyrrell Hatton requires a win and favourable outcomes elsewhere. He managed a bogey-free 70 and is six strokes behind Kim.
Rory shoots his best opening round at the Earth Course since 2021 #DPWTC | #RolexSeries pic.twitter.com/D944f2oNRM DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) November 13, 2025
Tommy Fleetwood's recent form was evident as he carded a solid 65 to secure outright second place. This performance places him just behind Kim as they head into Friday's play. The dynamics of the tournament suggest that McIlroy will aim to maintain pressure on Kim while ensuring he secures enough points for another Race to Dubai triumph.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how these top players navigate their rounds. With McIlroy's experience and current form, he remains a strong contender for yet another title in Dubai.
