Rory McIlroy to defend DP World Tour crown in Dubai this November
Season-ending Rolex Series event to feature top 50 in rankings
DUBAI: Grand Slam winner and five-time Major Champion Rory McIlroy will return to Jumeirah Golf Estates from 13 to 16 November to defend his DP World Tour Championship title at the season-ending Rolex Series event.
The Northern Irishman claimed his third DP World Tour Championship victory in 2024 with a masterclass in control and shot-making, sealing a record-equalling sixth Race to Dubai title. This placed him alongside the late Seve Ballesteros and strengthened his position among the most decorated players in Tour history.
The 36-year-old is now joint second in the all-time list for Race to Dubai victories, two behind Colin Montgomerie, and will aim for another European Number One crown.
What’s at stake?
The renowned Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates has been a stronghold for the World Number Two, where he has won the DP World Tour Championship in 2012, 2015 and 2024, and topped the season-long standings in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2022, 2023 and 2024. McIlroy also holds four additional Dubai titles.
Currently leading the Race to Dubai Rankings ahead of Tyrrell Hatton by 1,109.51 points, McIlroy will spend two weeks in the UAE. His schedule includes the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship – the first event of the DP World Tour Play-Offs – before heading to Dubai. His season highlights include victory at Augusta National, fourth place at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, a tied runner-up at the Genesis Scottish Open, and tied seventh at The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
“Dubai has always been a special place for me,” said McIlroy. “Winning both the DP World Tour Championship and the Race to Dubai last year was an incredible way to finish the season. To equal Seve’s record made it even more special. I’ve played some great golf this year and I’m looking forward to finishing strong again in front of the fans at Jumeirah Golf Estates.”
How to attend?
To celebrate 100 days to go, WHOOP – an Official Supplier of the DP World Tour Championship – is offering a free one-month membership trial to each fan who purchases a ticket. WHOOP is a 24/7 fitness and health wearable that tracks recovery, sleep, and training. Ticket holders will receive details by email after purchase.
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship marks the start of the Tour’s end-of-season showcase, leading directly into the DP World Tour Championship where the Race to Dubai champion will be crowned. The top 70 available players after the Back 9 events qualify for Abu Dhabi, with the top 50 advancing to Dubai.
McIlroy became the first European to win the career Grand Slam earlier this year by securing the Green Jacket to add to his four previous Major victories – the 2011 U.S. Open, the US PGA Championship in 2012 and 2014, and The Open in 2014. He now aims for a fourth successive Race to Dubai title and a seventh Harry Vardon Trophy.
DP World Tour Championship
Following record weekend crowds last year, free general admission tickets for Thursday and Friday are now available. Fans can save up to 40% on General Admission weekend tickets and Ticket+ before September.
The DP World Tour Championship promises more than just elite golf. The vibrant village offers activities including children’s entertainment, free golf lessons for all ages, Ladies Day celebrations, trick-shot displays, big screens for live coverage, and interactive sports zones.
Premium hospitality options include the Championship Chalet on the 18th green for an exclusive view of the closing action, and the Earth Lounge overlooking the 16th green for a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.
Ticket+ holders enjoy guaranteed access to the shaded viewing platform on the 17th green and priority at food and beverage counters – ideal for enjoying refreshments while watching the play up close.