Rory McIlroy secured a two-shot victory at the DP World Tour Championship and the Race to Dubai on Sunday, with the Northern Irishman drawing comparisons to Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus

Rory McIlroy has been compared to golfing greats Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus after his victories in the DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai.

The 35-year-old clinched the season finale of the DP World Tour for the third time, matching Seve Ballesteros’ record with his sixth season-long title – earning a whopping amount in the process.

Despite a year of ups and downs, including four wins on both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour in 2024, McIlroy ended on a high note. His win at Jumeriah Golf Estates was particularly impressive, starting strong and maintaining a professional performance throughout.

After an initial bogey, he made four consecutive birdies, taking the lead. Despite a mid-round hiccup that allowed Rasmus Hojgaard to catch up, McIlroy’s experience prevailed.

McIlroy and his family celebrate his big win (Image: Getty Images)

He scored his fifth birdie thanks to an exceptional approach into the par-four 15th, while Hojgaard could only make par. McIlroy continued to dominate, delivering an exceptional six-iron shot onto the green of the formidable par-three 17th, while Hojgaard’s attempt veered left.

McIlroy’s recent troubles appeared a distant memory as he delivered a masterful performance in Dubai, reminiscent of golfing legends. The Sky Sports commentator, Ewen Murray, showered the golfer with praise after his stunning play on the 17th: “The finish of McIlroy looking like a Tiger Woods finish. A Jack Nicklaus finish.”

The accolades don’t stop there; McIlroy has been compared to European icon Ballesteros as well.

An emotional McIlroy, obviously moved by matching Ballesteros’ record, expressed: “Yeah, it’s really cool,” and acknowledged the influence of Seve on European golf and the Ryder Cup: “I think everyone know what is Seve means to European golf and to Ryder Cup players.”

He shared touching memories from the European Ryder Cup locker room, filled with quotes and memorabilia from Seve, illustrating the enduring legacy of Ballesteros. Clearly touched, McIlroy added: “European Ryder Cup locker room, all we have are quotes of Seve. We had a changing room with Seve’s shirt from ’95, the last Ryder Cup he played (tearing up). He means so much to European golf and for me to be mentioned in the same breath, I’m very proud.”