Rory McIlroy has endorsed a new award that will honor the top DP World Tour player in the Majors annually, excluding himself as a potential recipient, despite his recent triumph at the Masters.
As the first European to achieve the career Grand Slam with his victory at Augusta in April, McIlroy’s name has been attached to the Rory McIlroy Award by the DP World Tour. This accolade will recognize the tour member who delivers the best performance across all four Major Championships during a season.
While expressing his enthusiasm for the honor, McIlroy acknowledged his ineligibility to win the award, stating, “It would be cool, but I am not allowed to win it. I thought it would be better if I wasn’t eligible. It was a collective decision that we all agreed upon.”
Acknowledged as the fifth player to have an award named after him on the DP World Tour, McIlroy’s recognition comes in light of his exceptional on-course accomplishments and unwavering support for the tour, including participation in events in India and Australia.
“It’s incredibly humbling,” said McIlroy. “To have an award bearing my name that acknowledges the top DP World Tour player across the four major championships within a year is truly special. I eagerly anticipate the upcoming year when I can present it to the deserving recipient once the majors conclude.”
Following his career Grand Slam achievement, McIlroy recounted being approached by DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings regarding the award’s establishment after his Masters triumph, revealing his initial reservations but eventual acceptance of the tribute as a lasting legacy beyond his playing days.
Currently vying to defend his title at the DP World Tour Championships and secure his fourth consecutive Race to Dubai win, McIlroy aims to surpass his shared record with Seve Ballesteros by claiming a seventh victory, with only Colin Montgomerie boasting more titles in the competition’s history.
Reflecting on the sustained excellence required to secure such long-term success, McIlroy praised the competitiveness of the European golf landscape and the challenges faced by past icons in the sport. His strong performance in Abu Dhabi this year has further solidified his lead in the rankings, with contenders needing a victory to narrow the gap.
“I feel confident in my game heading into the weekend, and I am optimistic about maintaining this form from Thursday onwards,” expressed the world No. 2 golfer, Rory McIlroy.