Rory McIlroy's quest for victory at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship continues! Despite numerous attempts and consistently strong performances, the coveted title remains elusive for the Northern Irishman.
A History of Near Misses
McIlroy's record at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is a testament to both his skill and his misfortune. In 11 appearances, he has finished runner-up four times and third on five occasions. He's consistently been in contention, only to be denied at the final hurdle.
Memorable near misses include a single-stroke defeat in 2012, 2014, and 2015. The 2015 tournament saw Gary Stal's unexpected victory, leaving McIlroy and other top players stunned. Stal's remarkable final round of 65 overcame Martin Kaymer's lead and secured the biggest win of his career.
Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship 2025: Another Close Call
The 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship saw Tommy Fleetwood and Aaron Rai battle it out in a playoff after finishing on a tournament-record 25-under total. McIlroy narrowly missed out, finishing just one shot behind the leaders at Yas Links Golf Course.
Despite the disappointment, McIlroy displayed exceptional sportsmanship, congratulating Fleetwood and Rai on their performances. His graciousness in defeat highlights his character and professionalism.
McIlroy admitted to feeling the pressure during the tournament, particularly as Rai set the pace. He acknowledged struggling with patience and felt he had left opportunities on the course each day.
Will McIlroy Ever Conquer Abu Dhabi?
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship remains a significant goal for Rory McIlroy. His consistent performances demonstrate his ability to compete at the highest level. Whether he can finally break through and claim victory remains to be seen, but his determination and skill suggest it's only a matter of time.
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is a part of the DP World Tour. The DP World Tour showcases some of the best golf talent globally.