DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Rory McIlroy wrapped up a challenging year in style by claiming victory at the World Tour Championship, marking his sixth title as Europe’s top player. On Sunday, he finished with a 3-under 69, securing a two-stroke win over Rasmus Hojgaard after birdying two of the last three holes.
During the decisive moments, McIlroy executed a precise wedge shot to within a foot of the pin on the 16th hole, allowing him to surge past Hojgaard. He capped off his performance with a 6-foot birdie, celebrating his third triumph at the season finale of the European Tour.
This victory also enabled McIlroy to clinch the Race to Dubai title for an impressive sixth time in his career, placing him just two titles shy of the all-time record set by Colin Montgomerie. He now joins the legendary Seve Ballesteros with this milestone.
Hojgaard, who had previously shocked McIlroy in the Irish Open earlier in the year, struggled in the final stretch of the event. He was unable to secure a single birdie in the last 11 holes, finishing with a score of 71.
McIlroy exhibited deep emotion as he walked off the 18th green, reflecting on a year filled with memorable highs and lows. Although he achieved four wins on the tour—two of which were on the PGA Tour—he faced disappointment by missing out on a major championship, particularly after relinquishing a late lead in the U.S. Open.
Adding another layer of complexity to his year, McIlroy announced plans for a divorce before the PGA Championship but later disclosed that he and his wife were attempting to reconcile their relationship.
“I’ve navigated a lot this year, both personally and professionally,” McIlroy remarked. “This feels like a fitting conclusion to what has been a tumultuous 2024 for me. I’ve shown a lot of perseverance.”
