Rory McIlroy capped a tumultuous year filled with highs and lows both on and off the course with two significant trophies and an emotional moment. On Sunday, he sealed a two-shot victory at the DP World Tour Championship, breaking a tie with Rasmus Hojgaard by hitting a wedge to within a foot for birdie on the 16th hole and finishing with a 3-under 69.
In addition to the win, McIlroy claimed his sixth Race to Dubai title, solidifying his position as Europe’s No. 1 player. At 35, the Northern Irishman was overcome with emotion, struggling to speak as he reflected on the challenges, triumphs, and everything in between.
Rory McIlroy expresses his emotions
“I’ve been through a lot this year, professionally and personally,” McIlroy said. “It feels like the fitting end to 2024. I’ve persevered this year a lot.”
Rory McIlroy’s season was filled with near-misses. He squandered a chance at the U.S. Open, missing two short putts in the final three holes at Pinehurst No. 2, finishing just one stroke behind Bryson DeChambeau. He was also on the brink of winning on home soil at the Amgen Irish Open, only to be overtaken by Rasmus Højgaard’s late surge.
Despite these setbacks, McIlroy ended the year on a high note, winning the DP World Tour Championship and claiming the Harry Vardon Trophy for the season’s points title. “It’s been hard at times,” McIlroy said, reflecting on the challenges. “To finish the year like this means the world to me.”
He took control of the final round with four consecutive birdies from the second hole, eventually holding off Højgaard to win by two shots. McIlroy closed with a 15-under 273, earning $5 million, including a $2 million Race to Dubai bonus.
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“I think everyone knows what Seve means to European golf and to Ryder Cup players. (In the) European Ryder Cup locker room, all we have are quotes of Seve. We had a changing room with Seve’s shirt from ’95, the last Ryder Cup he played,” McIlroy said as he wiped away more tears.
“And for me to be mentioned in the same breath, I’m very proud.”
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