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Golf

Rory McIlroy keen to end 2016 on top of the world

Rory McIlroy intends to finish a mixed 2016 by returning to the top of the world rankings with a ...



Rory McIlroy keen to end 2016...
Golf

Rory McIlroy keen to end 2016 on top of the world

Rory McIlroy intends to finish a mixed 2016 by returning to the top of the world rankings with a win in the season ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

The Holywood golfer won the FedEx Cup earlier in the year, but was unable to make an impression in any of the four majors.

The Ryder Cup was also disappointing for the 27-year-old who produced an emotionally charged performance, provoking the raucous Hazeltine galleries but ultimately came up short.

While he concedes that the Race to Dubai title may be out of his grasp, he's aware of what a victory will bring him in Dubai.

"I know if I win I'll be back to world number one by the end of the year which is a huge incentive," he told Nick Dye.

"I just have to go and worry about what I can do and hopefully that's to win. I'm sure that won't be enough so I'll let the other boys battle it out for the Race to Dubai, but I'd love to get my name on that trophy again.

"I don't know how involved I am in the Race to Dubai, but I just want to win this event this week. There's still a lot to play for, I'd love to win this tournament for a third time."

With the R2D title seemingly out of reach, McIlroy maintained that his approach would not change and that the course itself would suit his style.

"I know that I have a goal in my mind and that if I win the tournament something good is going to happen. This year it may not be the Race to Dubai but it will be getting back to world number one. 

"It's a big incentive for me, but then again it's a big enough tournament on it's own. You always want to win this one and it's the last start of the year for me so it would make that Christmas and New Year break that little bit better.

"[The course] always suits the longer hitter and someone who can hit the higher ball flight. The greens are really good this week. The course is in fantastic shape. I wouldn't be surprised to see the usual suspects up there on Sunday. 

"From the first time we came here in 2009 to today, it's developed so much in the last few years. It creates a great atmosphere and with the people moving in. It really gives the tour a great feel and a great atmosphere."

Rory McIlroy celebrating his win at the Irish Open earlier this year. Image: ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

McIlroy also commented on the inclusion of the Irish Open in the European Tour's newly founded Rolex Series which will include what the Tour describe as an "exciting new alliance of leading tournaments".

Seven competitions will be included in the Series which will have a minimum prize fund of $7 million (€6.5million).

"To have a series like this where you can get the best golf tournaments on the European Tour for great prize funds and trying to bring the best players together more often.

"I think everyone is excited about it and I'm looking forward to playing in them next year. It'll definitely add another element to the European Tour.

"It's a massive boost for the Irish Open. I've been very lucky that they have included the Irish Open as part of this series."

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