What Tyrrell Hatton didn’t feel ‘comfortable’ about whilst playing at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic

Add as preferred source on Google

Tyrrell Hatton is firmly in contention heading into the fourth round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai.

Hatton made five birdies and an eagle to shoot 68 (four under) and sits one shot back of Daniel Hillier. Hatton will partner the Aussie in Sunday’s final round.

The Dubai Desert Classic is set to be Hatton’s only DP World Tour outing before the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. Therefore, a win would cement his position inside the top six of Europe’s qualification standings.

Hatton’s last victory came at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. Before the event on Scotland’s east coast, the Englishman won his first LIV Golf event in Nashville.

Tyrrell Hatton drops verdict on his game at Dubai Desert Classic

Despite being in contention and seemingly looking in control of his game in the UAE, Hatton admitted he did not feel comfortable over the ball on Saturday.

“To be honest I don’t feel super comfortable over the ball,” Hatton said in his post-round press conference.

“So I don’t know why that is. But for the most part, I’ve been hitting some good shots. I feel like I’ve been a little bit unlucky at times as well out there, but that’s kind of part and parcel of golf.

“It’s been nice to see a few putts go in. Obviously, I’ve missed a few as well, but yeah, I need some putts to drop tomorrow.”

• READ MORE: Tyrrell Hatton says what his Ryder Cup plans now are after helping GB & Ireland win the Team Cup

Tyrrell Hatton must deliver at Dubai Desert Classic

With Hatton’s European points opportunities limited over the next eight months, winning in the UAE is a must.

2000 points are available at this week’s Rolex Series event, meaning a victory would propel Hatton near the top of the standings and give him a cushion heading into the start of the LIV Golf season.

It’s not just DP World Tour events where the Englishman can boost his Bethpage Black chances, however.

5000 points are available at the four major championships, and given the 32-year-old’s form, a maiden major victory cannot be ruled out. Hatton placed T9 at the Masters Tournament, T63 at the PGA Championship, T26 at the US Open, and missed the cut at The Open in 2024.