Rory McIlroy's Quest to Complete His Abu Dhabi Record
Rory McIlroy has shown remarkable consistency at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, yet one notable achievement has eluded him—winning the tournament. Despite 11 appearances, the Northern Irish star has never secured the title.
McIlroy's Close Calls at Abu Dhabi
- Finished runner-up four times
- Claimed third place alone or shared five times
- Lost by a stroke in 2012, 2014, and 2015
Notable Defeats
The 2015 event was a particular disappointment as French player Gary Stal surged from eight strokes behind after 54 holes to win against several Ryder Cup stars, including McIlroy.
“Stal's victory in 2015 was arguably the biggest shock for McIlroy and co as the Frenchman roared from eight strokes behind 54-hole leader Martin Kaymer to stun a cluster of current or future Ryder Cup stars at Abu Dhabi Golf Club.”
Other Ambitions for 2025
Beyond Abu Dhabi, McIlroy aims to win his seventh Race to Dubai title, which would bring him just one behind Colin Montgomerie’s record for most all-time titles. This year has unfolded even better than McIlroy might have imagined, but these goals remain key targets.
“Perhaps the most important would be to win a seventh Race To Dubai crown and pull within one of Colin Montgomerie in terms of the most all-time titles.”
Career Highlights
Now 36 years old and a five-time Major champion, McIlroy is eager to finally conquer the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship and add this missing piece to his exceptional record.
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Author's summary: Rory McIlroy, despite a stellar career and multiple close finishes, has yet to win the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, aiming to complete this elusive achievement alongside other major career goals in 2025.