McIlroy Opens Title Charge With Impressive 66. Image credit: 24 News
(The Post News)- Rory McIlroy made a powerful declaration to start the week. On Thursday, he shot a hard six-under-par 66 to start the season-ending DP World Tour Championship.
He is aware of the risks. He has a strong wish for a seventh Order of Merit honour.
McIlroy trails American Michael Kim by two strokes. Kim shot a perfect 64 with no bogeys. Tommy Fleetwood also had a polished appearance. The English player finished one shot ahead of McIlroy with a bogey-free 65.
McIlroy finds true solace in the standings. Tyrrell Hatton and Marco Penge are the only players who can pass him this week. They both had trouble in the first few rounds. Penge recorded a two-over 74 while playing alongside McIlroy. He sits near the field’s bottom with an even-par 70. Hatton performed marginally better. However, he is still well behind the leaders.
At Jumeirah Golf Estates, McIlroy is at home. Last year was one of his three victories in this competition. His confidence is clear as he makes his fifteenth visit here. He maintained his composure even when he was in difficulty on the 15th. His car veered toward the trees on the left. He created a magnificent wedge over the branches. The ball came to a near stop. The birdie putt was rolled in by him. It was the only time danger materialized.
Fleetwood is still impressive. He has lived close to the course for the past three years. He was able to shoot that 65 because of his familiarity and excellent form. He appears prepared to compete for the trophy.
For everyone, this week is really important. The largest prize on the tour, a $10 million purse, is awarded during the DP World Tour Championship. A $6 million bonus pool is also shared by the top 10 players in the rankings. Every shot counts. The season can be altered by each putt.
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