Rory McIlroy Shoots Bogey Free 63 in Dubai, Still Favorite for Green Jacket

As his TGL business partner is busy establishing his next apparel brand, Sunday Red, Rory McIlroy is looking to channel some of Tiger’s Sunday aggression on the golf course. He started slowly this week at the Dubai desert classic, the site of three previous DP World tour victories. Rory shot a 63 on moving day, vaulting 22 places of the leaderboard with a closing eagle on 18.

Rory was back to his best, a scorecard without a blemish, carding 7 birdies and an eagle for a 63 (-9) to put himself in contention on Sunday. Cameron young has LED from the start since Thursday in Dubai but faltered on Saturday opening the door for Rory to move within two.

While you were sleeping, Rory with a comfy little 63 to jump into contention in Dubai (where he has won 3 times).

Finished the round off with this insane eagle putt on the 18th. pic.twitter.com/d9S75AIeQN

— Shane Bacon (@shanebacon) January 20, 2024

This Sunday, Rory will be looking to win a fourth Dubai desert classic, as he commits to a more strenuous schedule in the build up to Augusta. Rory said that he aims to rattle off consistent tournaments before driving down Magnolia lane in April. Having narrowly missed last week to Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood, Rory is looking to get it done on Sunday and continue this fine run of form in the new year.

2024 marks a decade since Rory last lifted a major championship, whilst having achieved everything else in the game in the interim, he would love to complete the Grand Slam at Augusta this year. I once noted that for Rory to win the Masters – he must come from behind, but not put himself out of the fight on Thursday. He is at his best when he is miles back and just picks the golf course apart, in full flow and chasing birdies.

Rory was asked after the round what he is most proud of in his career:

“I turn up every day still trying to get better. I’ve never lost the hunger to go out and play better but also I’ve never lost the joy of the game, which I think is really important”.

He seems in a good place right now. Could this be the year Rory breaks the major drought?

Cover Image via Sky Sports