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McIlroy eyes 5th Dubai Desert Classic crown as he marks 20 years at EGC
Gulf Today
|January 22, 2026
Rory Mcllroy revealed his focus for the 2026 DP World Tour campaign as he targets his fifth Rolex Series title at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
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The World No. 2 enjoyed a year to remember in 2025, becoming the sixth male player in history to complete the career Grand Slam with victory at the Masters last April.
The Northern Irishman added further silverware in September by claiming his second Amgen Irish Open title before playing a pivotal role in helping Team Europe retain the Ryder Cup in a dramatic contest at Bethpage Black in New York.
Mcllroy rounded off a stellar season by lifting the Harry Vardon Trophy for a seventh time, confirming his status as Europe's Number One.
Despite a momentous year, the 36-year-old insists he will not rest on his laurels and will bring the same hunger and enthusiasm to every event he tees it up in, including this week at Emirates Golf Club (EGC).
"I think I need to show up at tournaments with enthusiasm every single time," said Mcllroy. "Playing in the places that I want to play, playing the tournaments I want to play. Not feeling like I'm at a tournament because I'm obligated or have to be there, but because I want to be there.
This story is from the January 22, 2026 edition of Gulf Today.
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