McIlroy: I need to be at ‘absolute best’ to win Race to Dubai

Rory McIlroy stated that he must perform at his "absolute best" to secure a record-equalling eighth Race to Dubai title this week. Ahead of the season-ending DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates, McIlroy trails standings leader Eugenio Chacarra by more than 500 points. He aims to match Colin Montgomerie's all-time record of eight European Tour Order of Merit crowns.

McIlroy noted that thick rough will make the course more penal off the tee, though he hopes his past success at the venue provides an edge. Jon Rahm, who sits sixth in the standings following his win at the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, praised Chacarra's ball-striking and consistency across various course conditions ahead of the tournament.