The prospect of a tasty play-off between Rory McIlroy and Patrick Reed will have lasted throughout the fourth round. This is without counting on a last victorious putt from the Northern Irishman, who with a birdie on the last hole won Monday at the Dubai Desert Classic.
In the cold since Reed left for LIV Golf, these two have been downright enemies since this week and a nice clash this Monday at the Dubai driving range (McIlroy refused to greet Reed there, before the two bickered over interposed press conferences). On the course, the Northern Irishman and the American answered birdie for birdie during the last lap of the second Rolex Series of the European season.
Starting four strokes behind McIlroy and playing a game before his ex-Ryder Cup opponent, Reed shot a solid 65, with an eagle at 10 and then a birdie at 18 to put pressure on the world number one.
Author of a crucial birdie on 17 (green hit in a blow), “R-Mac” found himself on the last green with 4.5 meters to win, after having wisely ensured the shot after a drive which brushed against the water obstacle. A putt that he will enquillera with a tight fist, for a 3rd career victory on this course. One point ahead of Patrick Reed, only second in -18.
Winner’s reaction: I struggled with my game all week, but I managed to play smart. Especially on the 18 (this Monday), hole on which I lost a lot of points these two years (with balls in the water hazard). I still have a lot of work to do this season, but mentally I have been strong. Finally (by winning his first Rolex Series), I am entitled to the golden star next to my name! »
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This is the first victory in the Rolex Series for Rory McIlroy. The number has a total of 15 victories on the European circuit.
Top 5 for Brun, Perez unscrews
On the French side, a fine 5th place for Julien Brun (68, -14), who thus achieved his best career performance on a Rolex Series. By pocketing more than 350,000 euros, the right-hander from Antibes almost guarantees his playing rights for the next European season.
Complicated Monday on the other hand for Victor Perez, that one of a 75 final lost 24 ranks and finished 28th (-8). Note the 16th place of Romain Langasque, who for his first tournament in 2023 finished 16th, in -10 (68).
