Rory McIlroy wins DP World Tour finale to clinch sixth Race to Dubai title and match Seve Ballesteros record

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Rory McIlroy won the season-ending DP World Tour Championship to clinch his sixth Race to Dubai title.

McIlroy finished two shots ahead of Rasmus Hojgaard on 15 under at Jumeirah Golf Estates after a three-under-par 69 in his final round.

In winning a sixth Race to Dubai title, McIlroy matches Seve Ballesteros' record.

“It's really cool,” said an emotional McIlroy.

“I think everyone knows what Seve means to European golf and Ryder Cup players. In the European locker room, all we have are quotes from Seve, we have a changing room with a Seve shirt from '95, the last Ryder Cup he played.

“He means so much to European golf and for me to be mentioned in the same breath, I'm very proud.”

McIlroy added: “I’ve been through a lot this year, professional and personally, and it feels like the fitting end to 2024.

“I’ve persevered a lot this year… had some close calls, wasn’t able to get it done so to be able to get over the line [was nice].”

McIlroy and Hojgaard were locked on 13 under with five holes remaining in Dubai.

McIlroy valiantly saved par at the 15th hole before hitting his approach inside a foot at the next to card his first birdie in 11 holes and nudge ahead of his rival.

Hojgaard holed a clutch par putt at the 17th to remain one behind but when he failed to find the cup with a birdie effort at the last, McIlroy had two attempts for victory.

He only needed one putt to seal the two-shot success and complete the end-of-season double.

Additional reporting: Press Association