McIlroy opens World Tour Championship with 69 to boost bid for record-tying Race to Dubai title

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Rory McIlroy began his pursuit of a record-tying eighth Race to Dubai title at the season-ending World Tour Championship on Thursday, posting a 3-under 69 to sit in third place, two shots behind leader Joost Luiten. McIlroy, aiming for his eighth consecutive title, is currently second in the Race to Dubai standings, trailing Eugenio Chacarra by three strokes.

In the final pairing of the day, McIlroy's strategic 254-yard approach to just 13 feet on No. 18 paid off with a birdie, while Chacarra settled for par after a challenging lie in the rough. Patrick Reed, another title contender, struggled and shot a 75, while Jon Rahm, the Abu Dhabi champion, posted a 71. Luiten, seeking a significant reward with the potential addition of 10 PGA Tour spots for European players, opened with a round of 67, aided by five birdies in his front nine.

The strong performance from Dutch player Jon Rahm and potential European newcomers has added excitement to the final week of the championship.