Rory McIlroy returns to the scene of his first professional win in 2009, hoping for an encore when he joins a strong field at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, at Emirates Golf Club from February 9 to 12.
The Irishman, who was 19 at that time of his victory three years ago, carded a final round of two under par 70 to finish at 19 under par and seal a wire-to-wire victory, making him the seventh youngest winner in The European Tour’s history.
Since that landmark victory, McIlory has enjoyed a rapid rise through the ranks, becoming the World Number Two last year, making his Ryder Cup debut in 2010 and winning the 2011 US Open Championship.
But Dubai remains close to his heart where he will be making his seventh appearance, the most number of times he has played anywhere. He made the cut for the first time in a European Tour event as a 17-year-old amateur in Dubai in 2007, eventually finishing tied 52nd at three-under-par score of 285.
“It's always nice to get back to a golf course where I've enjoyed success. Obviously, I will be looking to win the event again,” said McIlroy ahead of the $2.5 million event, promoted and organised by golf in DUBAi.
“The memories of the 2009 are still are very strong, but I feel as if I'm a more complete player now than I was in 2009.
“I definitely swing it better. I'm able to shape the ball both ways and, physically, I've gotten stronger and I feel like I'm definitely headed in the right direction.”.
McIlroy, who is also the global ambassador of Jumeirah Group, joins World Number Two Lee Westwood and World Number Four Martin Kaymer in the field, meaning next month’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic will boast three of the world’s top four players.
Adding spice to the event will be the presence of Fred Couples, the victorious US Presidents Cup captain, who was the first American to win in Dubai in 1995.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “Rory is a familiar face to Dubai fans, having competed in this event a number of times, both as an amateur and professional. He is an exceptionally talented young sportsman who, I believe, is destined for greatness.
“For sure, he is an inspiration to young sportsmen even from beyond his own sport. They admire him a lot and love watching him. I don’t believe in comparing sportsmen, but Rory’s youthful charm and charisma has certainly created its own marketable brand.
“With three of the world’s top four joining Fred in the field, we can expect high quality golf. I wish Rory and all other players the very best and hope they have a wonderful stay in Dubai.”
