Race to Dubai leader Rory McIlroy is set on finally claiming the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship title as the tournament marks its 20th edition this week, targeting the Falcon Trophy to complete his impressive record in the UAE.
The Northern Irishman has enjoyed remarkable success across the region, with seven of his 20 DP World Tour titles secured in the Emirates. His victories include four Hero Dubai Desert Classic trophies and three DP World Tour Championship wins since first competing in the UAE in 2006.
Yet despite contending regularly in Abu Dhabi, including four runner-up finishes, McIlroy has yet to add the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship to his list of achievements, leaving a notable gap in a career that already includes five Major Championships and 29 PGA TOUR titles.
“I’ve been close,” McIlroy reflected during his pre-event press conference. “Second four times and third five times or something.
“I’d say the majority of the times that we’ve played in Abu Dhabi, it’s been my first event of the year, and you’re just not quite… I’m not saying that’s all the reason but you’re just not quite as sharp and not quite as match fit as you would be in the middle of the season. I feel like this tournament going to the end of the year should hopefully give me a better opportunity to knock it off and finally get that Falcon Trophy.
“With how much I’ve won in Dubai and not being able to get it done an hour down the road, yeah, it’s something I want to try and achieve.”
McIlroy arrives in Abu Dhabi with a 441.32-point advantage over Marco Penge at the top of the Race to Dubai standings. A season-ending victory would secure his seventh Harry Vardon Trophy, bringing him within one of Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight.
“When I got to six last year and tied Seve, and Monty doesn’t feel that far away, it’s like, yeah, that’s something that I would love to do,” said McIlroy, who begins his campaign tomorrow playing alongside Penge and Tyrrell Hatton.
“Let’s see if I can do it. I’ve given myself a really good shot again this year. But I know I’m going to have a good challenge from Marco and Tyrrell and a few other guys behind me. But I’m excited for the challenge over these next couple weeks.”
Spectators can enjoy free general admission for the first two days of the tournament, with weekend tickets starting at AED 100.
Fans seeking an elevated experience can book Bar on Nine, the Ticket+ upgrade available from AED 230, including an AED 100 food and beverage voucher.
For premium hospitality, the Championship Chalet on the 18th green offers a luxury setting with an air-conditioned lounge and shaded balcony overlooking the final hole. Packages start at AED 1680.
