Rory McIlroy suggests he’s being pushed by a golfer who’s never played on the PGA Tour and he likes it

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Rory McIlroy is in an excellent position to win his seventh DP World Tour Race to Dubai title next month.

He has led the season-long R2D standings since his famous victory at The Masters many months ago.

McIlroy’s incredible victory at the Irish Open in September then extended his lead over his opponents.

However, the race is not over because another player has won three DP World Tour events in 2025.

McIlroy is pleased to see a close battle for the title ahead of the two season-ending events in the United Arab Emirates.

• READ MORE: Rory McIlroy surprised by what happened to the course in India on day one of DP World Tour event

Rory McIlroy comments on Race to Dubai rival Marco Penge

McIlroy spoke about Race to Dubai rival Marco Penge before the DP World Tour India Championship.

The Englishman has won the Hainan Classic, the Danish Golf Championship, and the Spanish Open this season.

Penge’s latest victory in Spain elevated him to second in the R2D standings on 3,691 points, less than 400 behind McIlroy.

McIlroy is not only aware of Penge’s brilliant season, but he also admitted that it will motivate him in the next few weeks.

“Marco’s had a fantastic year,” McIlroy said about his likely future European Ryder Cup teammate.

“Thinking about him having a putt to make the cut in Korea last year to keep his card to what he’s done this year, it’s great to see. I’m liking that he’s pushing me.”

Rory McIlroy can extend Race to Dubai lead in India

There are so many points available at the Abu Dhabi Championship and the DP World Tour Championship that the Race to Dubai title will go down to the wire.

However, Rory McIlroy will already have one hand on the trophy if things go to plan in India this week.

McIlroy is playing in the DP World Tour India Championship at the Delhi Golf Club, where he is the leading contender to win.

Should he beat Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, and the rest of the field to victory, he would then have an almost insurmountable lead over Penge.

McIlroy started the tournament with a solid three-under-par round, suggesting that he will be in contention on Sunday.