Rory McIlroy has set his sights on matching Colin Montgomerie's record of eight Order of Merit titles. This ambition follows McIlroy's recent achievement of securing his seventh title, despite a dramatic
play-off loss to Matt Fitzpatrick at the DP World Tour Championship. McIlroy's performance in the Race to Dubai standings remains impressive, finishing top for the fourth consecutive year and seventh overall.
In a thrilling finale, McIlroy forced extra holes with a remarkable 15-foot eagle on the last hole, equalling Fitzpatrick's clubhouse lead of 18-under. However, he found water and missed his par putt in the play-off. Despite this setback, second place was sufficient for McIlroy as Tyrrell Hatton, his closest rival in the Race to Dubai, finished tied for 14th at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
McIlroy is now just one title shy of Montgomerie's record. Reflecting on this milestone, he told Sky Sports, "To surpass Seve Ballesteros, who had six titles this year, I did not get this far in my dreams. " He added that matching Montgomerie is within reach and feels like it's "within touching distance now. "
McIlroy expressed his desire to become the European with the most wins in terms of the Order of Merit and season-long races. "I was the first European to win the [career] grand slam," he noted. With several good years ahead, McIlroy hopes to catch up with Montgomerie and eventually surpass him.
He also praised Matt Fitzpatrick's performance during their final round encounter. "I got off to the perfect start," McIlroy said. He described being three under through five holes and four under through seven as taking control of the tournament before making two bogeys later on.
Despite not birdieing holes 14 and 15, which are considered birdie opportunities, McIlroy knew he needed something special on the last hole. He credited Rasmus Hojgaard for giving him a read on his putt. Although he managed to make it into a play-off, hitting water ultimately cost him victory.
Rory McIlroy wins the Race to Dubai for a SEVENTH time pic.twitter.com/w3198RCh6I
- DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) November 16, 2025
McIlroy acknowledged Fitzpatrick's strong finish to the season and his successful bid for a spot on the Ryder Cup team. "I'm happy for Matt," he said. Fitzpatrick's consistent performance has been commendable both during and after securing his place in the Ryder Cup team.
As McIlroy continues his pursuit of Montgomerie's record, he remains optimistic about future opportunities. His determination and focus suggest that achieving this goal is well within reach given his current form and mindset.
