Rory McIlroy continues his pursuit of a victory at the Dubai Desert Classic, while Jon Rahm's struggles and Viktor Hovland's inconsistency mark a surprising turn of events. McIlroy navigates the course, setting himself up for a strong weekend performance. Meanwhile, Rahm's disappointing outing raises questions about his form heading into the new season, and Hovland's game appears to be in need of refinement.
Rory McIlroy survived to the weekend at the Desert Classic but fellow Irishmen Jon Rahm and Viktor Hovland exited the tournament. McIlroy will have the opportunity to make early headway on day three. Hovland’s 73 meant he departed at plus four. The Norwegian’s game clearly remains in a state of flux, which already raises questions over Ryder Cup participation later this year.
Tom McKibbin sits on five under heading into Saturday after going one better than his first round showing to card a three under par 69, while Padraig Harrington failed to make the cut after a three-over second round brought him to one over. Joining Harrington below the cut line, Rahm caused widespread shock with his struggles on his first start of 2025 and debut in this tournament. The Spaniard’s second round of 77, including two double bogeys, contrasted sharply with a Thursday 69. “But if there’s any positive side of it, it is the beginning of the year. There’s a lot of golf and a lot of months to look forward to. I have a pretty clear idea of what I need to work on. For these next two weeks, I will go home and try to get better. “I wouldn’t say that there was anything that went well. No part of the game today was even average compared to what I would like to feel.” Jon Rahm in action during the second round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Photograph: Ali Haider/EPA-EFE Ten out of 10 for candour. Rahm also admirably refused to criticise anything about the event itself. Indeed he plans to return despite this early exit. “I absolutely love the golf course, absolutely love the set-up,” he added. “There is nothing I could say that is bad about this tournament. “You don’t usually see rough that long and thick outside of major championships. So I think it shows the test which is proper. If the schedule allows, I would like to be here next year and hopefully get some redemption.” Ferguson finished with a flourish in fading light. The Dubai-based Scot hit an approach to the 18th that was bound for Sharjah before rebounding from a stand to within 5ft of the hole. An eagle followed, his 65 moving him one clear of Daniel Hillier at minus 12. Tyrrell Hatton lurks at eight under par
RORY MCILROY JON RAHM VIKTOR HOVLAND DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC GOLF SPORTS
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