Rory McIlroy says he will concentrate on his own game as he tries to fend off Ryder Cup teammate Tyrrell Hatton and complete a Dubai double at the DP World Tour season finale. McIlroy shot a four-under 68 in the third round to move to 13 under and share the lead with Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen at Jumeirah Golf Estates, leaving a tightly packed leaderboard ahead of the final day.
The world number two is bidding to win the DP World Tour Championship for a fourth time and defend his title, while moving closer to a seventh Race to Dubai crown, which would be his fourth in as many years. Hatton began the week as one of the few players who could still overhaul McIlroy on the Order of Merit, needing a victory combined with McIlroy finishing outside the top eight. Hatton went into the last round part of a six-way tie for third after consecutive 67s.
McIlroy said he was in a better position than his rivals and would focus on playing the golf he knows he is capable of, especially on this course. He reflected on a memorable 2025 that included completing the career Grand Slam at The Masters, winning the Amgen Irish Open in a play-off, and playing a major role in Europe’s Ryder Cup success. Defending his title at the season finale would be an ideal way to finish the year, he added, and the Race to Dubai remains a major motivation as he chases Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight Order of Merit titles.
Marco Penge, who was mentioned as being not far behind, appeared to fall out of contention after starting the final day tied 36th; he needed a share of second or better to have a realistic chance. Hatton, meanwhile, said his recent form had given him a chance and he intended to go out and try to put another good round together.
Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley urged McIlroy to stay aggressive, noting that he performs best when moving forward rather than holding back. McGinley predicted a winning total around 17 under or perhaps lower, given the strength of the field and the number of Ryder Cup players in contention.
The final round of the DP World Tour Championship will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Golf on Sunday from 6.30am, with streaming options also available.