“I’ve spent the majority of my time in this region in the United Arab Emirates, so I can only speak on mostly the Emiratis that I’ve befriended and become close with,” McIlroy told gathered press. “I feel like they’re the most welcoming people in the world. Some friends, I would call some of my closest. It’s an amazing place with, yeah, very, very generous, amazing people.”
Pack Leader
“I don’t think it’s going to be quite as comfortable as it has been the last couple years but I’m excited for that challenge,” remarking on Penge’s rise, McIlroy added: “He’s done amazingly well – He’s sort of that modern golfer, hits it long, and seems to not really have a ton of weaknesses.”
Change of fortune
“ I think it’s nine top threes but no wins… I’d love to get my hands on that Falcon Trophy. I’ve been close. With everything that’s happened with the Masters and The PLAYERS and Irish Open, Ryder Cup, everything, yeah, it would be a lovely way to finish the year.”
McIlroy will be teeing off on his first round at 09.23 GST at Yas Links tomorrow alongside Marco Penge and reigning Dubai Desert Classic Champion, Tyrrell Hatton.
