Another Race to Dubai, another trophy for Rory McIlroy. The man just locked down his sixth Harry Vardon Trophy, tying with Seve Ballesteros for second-most in history. He’s now two shy of Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight. Impressive, right? Sure, if you’re into European golf stats. But let’s get real—does this mean Rory had a great season, or is it just a shiny consolation prize for missing out (again) on a major?
The Case for Rory’s “Great” Year
Rory wasn’t just coasting on the DP World Tour; he was the most consistent player in the world this year. Eleven top-5 finishes, including wins at the Genesis Scottish Open and Hero Dubai Desert Classic, kept him in contention for the year-long title from start to finish. The Race to Dubai title itself? It was a foregone conclusion by the time he teed it up in Dubai, thanks to his massive points lead over South Africa’s Thriston Lawrence and others
But About Those Majors…
Here’s where the conversation flips. Rory hasn’t won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship—a full decade ago. For a player of his caliber, that’s a glaring gap. Winning on the DP World Tour, often seen as golf’s “second string” compared to the PGA Tour, doesn’t carry the same clout. And let’s be honest: would Rory trade all six of those Race to Dubai titles for one more green jacket or claret jug? You bet he would.
Is the DP World Tour Second-Tier?
The DP World Tour’s talent pool is solid but undeniably thinner than the PGA Tour’s. Yes, Rory’s competing against some of the world’s best in events like the DP World Tour Championship, but the week-to-week grind lacks the intensity of PGA events where every field is stacked. Winning here feels more like the cherry on top of a season where Rory was already dominating.
What’s Next for Rory?
Rory’s Race to Dubai triumph ties him to legends, but it also adds to his reputation as a guy who dominates everywhere but majors. He’s undeniably a world-class player, but 2024 feels like another year where his legacy didn’t quite grow the way it could’ve. Will 2025 finally be the year he gets that fifth major? Or will it be another season of “what could’ve been”?
So, congrats on the Race to Dubai, Rory. But if you want to silence the doubters, it’s time to add a little more Augusta and a little less Abu Dhabi to the trophy case.
