Rory McIlroy was able to celebrate his impressive victory in Dubai with his wife, Erica Stoll and daughter, Poppy, after a tough year on and off the course

Rory McIlroy dedicated today’s win to his wife and child (Image: Getty)

Rory McIlroy celebrated his victory at the DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai crown with his wife, Erica Stoll, and daughter, Poppy, on Sunday at the Earth Course.

This win marks the third season-ending event victory for McIlroy, helping him secure his sixth Race to Dubai championship, equalling the record held by European stalwart, Seve Ballesteros.

The 35-year-old golfer carded a three-under-par 69 in the final round, beating Rasmus Hojgaard by two shots.

The year has been a rollercoaster for McIlroy, who faced numerous challenges, notably at the US Open in June where he lost a two-shot lead with four holes remaining, resulting in a loss to Bryson DeChambeau.

Rory McIlroy could not conceal his emotions after winning the DP World Tour Championship (Image: Sky Sports)

His failure at Pinehurst means his wait for a fifth major championship will extend into its 11th year, a record that continues to loom over him. He had near-misses at both the Irish Open and BMW PGA Championship before finally clinching a win again in Dubai this week.

Off the golf course, McIlroy has also faced personal difficulties. In May, it was revealed that the six-time Race to Dubai champion filed for divorce from his wife Erica, with the announcement of their marriage breakdown coming the week of the PGA Championship, reports the Mirror.

Rory McIlroy has called off the proposed split with his wife, stating they are working on their marriage for the sake of their daughter. “There have been rumours about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate,” McIlroy admitted in a summer statement.

“Responding to each rumour is a fool’s game. Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realised that our best future was as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”

Since then, McIlroy and his wife Erica have been seen together at various events.

Erica and their daughter Poppy were there to greet him as he finished his round in Dubai on Sunday. After completing the 18th hole, McIlroy shared a heartfelt hug with his daughter and a kiss with Stoll.

Later, during the post-tournament presentation on the 18th green, McIlroy paid homage to his family, declaring to Erica and Poppy: “I love you,” in his victory speech. Following the win, an emotional McIlroy opened up about the challenges he faced over the year.

He said: “Yeah It means a lot,” “I’ve been through a lot this year professionally, personally. It feels like the fitting end to 2024. You know, yeah, look, I’ve persevered this year a lot. Had close calls. Wasn’t able to get it done… Really pleased with the way I finished and thankfully I hung on on a tough day and got it done.”