Bhubaneswar: Rory McIlroy wasted no time in asserting his dominance as he launched his bid for another season title on the DP World Tour, delivering an impressive opening round that further solidifies his hold on the coveted Race to Dubai.
With a strong back-nine surge, McIlroy picked up five birdies over a six-hole stretch to move up the leaderboard and put pressure on his rivals. He enters the final stretch of the season with a comfortable margin, cementing his status as one of the favourites.
“I have a clear head now,” McIlroy said ahead of the tournament. “I’m out of all the political stuff in golf and can just focus on playing and playing where I want to.”
McIlroy’s run this year has been exceptional — he’s already captured multiple titles and is chasing a seventh Race to Dubai crown, a feat that would move him closer to Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight.
With his opening round setting the tone, the Northern Irishman has sent a clear message to the field: he’s in business. As his rivals scramble to catch up, McIlroy looks more composed, more focused and more deadly than ever. If he sustains this form, the Race to Dubai could once again conclude with his flag flying high.
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