DP World Tour Slync.io Dubai Desert Classic
After getting a break on 17, McIlroy hits an awesome drive down the 18 hole, at the Emirates Golf Club, Majlis Golf Course, on the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic.
In the clubhouse is veteran Richard Bland and golf phenom Viktor Hovland sitting at a comfortable -12 under par and waiting to either, go on a playoff or the airport.
McIlroy was -12 under par with over 260 yards into the par 5. A birdie would have done the trick at best, and at worst, a par would have taken him into a playoff with Bland and Hovland.
Unfortunately for him, none of those two scenarios came to fruition. He bogeyed 18 after spraying his second shot into the water and missing a par putt.
What what was he thinking? Did his caddie, Harry Diamond, told him what was going on? Did he knew all he needed was a birdie to win outright or a par to join the playoff?
In typical McIlroy fashion, he went out in flames. I felt sorry for the guy, after all, I am a golfer and I have played at the Emirates Club many times. I know how difficult is to clear that water, and at over 260 yards is even tougher.
I know the player is responsible for making the shot, but I put a lot of the blame on his caddie. I would have insisted on the layup and dealt with the ass-chewing after the victory champagne.
This was one of the worst decisions I have witnessed. A heartbreaker for sure.
Personally, I think is time for Rory McIlroy to hire a real caddie. I am sure is fun to have your best buddy in your bag, but when millions, and legacy, are on the line, always go with a professional.
At the end, Viktor Hovland raised the trophy by defeating Richard Bland after birding the first playoff hole.