Sky Sports expert has exciting theory about Rory McIlroy after DP World Tour Championship | Golfing

Rory McIlroy has ‘ignited the flames’ that could see him end his major drought in 2025, the star’s former Ryder Cup captain has said. The Northern Irishman produced a sublime finish to capture the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, finishing two shots clear of Rasmus Hojgaard.

The pair were level on 13 under par when McIlroy then made a brilliant approach to the 16th, tapping him in for birdie.

He then held his nerve on the par-5 18th to record a birdie four, sealing not only the tournament but also a sixth Race to Dubai victory.

His emotional response spoke volumes after a difficult year, with Sky Sports commentator Paul McGinley calling the win proof that the 35-year-old is at his best when he has something to prove. “I’ve always said, when Rory is emotionally involved in something, he usually delivers results,” he said.

“Seeing that outpouring of emotion shows how much it means to him and how involved he was in matching Seve. It was a beautiful day of golf with some great storylines. Everyone is happy that Rory has crossed the line. It has been a tough year, as he says, in a number of ways, missing the great opportunity for another major championship.

“But wins like this fuel the fire to come back next year with renewed energy. What I liked most is that he made two of the last three holes, in the heat of the battle. Incredible shots in 16 and 17, and two great shots in 18.”

McGinley was referring to the US Open in June, where McIlroy led for much of the final round before capitulating in the final few holes. He missed a short putt on the final green, which opened the door for Bryson DeChambeau and denied him a fifth major title, and a first since the 2014 PGA Championship.

But he remains one of the most productive and consistent golfers in the world. And now level with Seve Ballesteros, he is now within sight of Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight wins.

In an emotional interview on the final green, McIlroy acknowledged he had mixed feelings about his season despite ending on a high note. “It means a lot. I’ve been through a lot this year both professionally and personally,” he said.

“It feels like a fitting end to 2024. I persevered a lot this year, had close calls and couldn’t get it done. So to get over the line, I persevered and got the job done.”

As well as his big ambitions, McIlroy will also play a prominent role in Team Europe’s bid to retain the Ryder Cup at Bethpage next September. He played a role when McGinley captained the team in 2014 as the hosts stormed to victory at Gleneagles.