Double delight for Rory McIlroy in Dubai

Rory McIlroy scored a thrilling win over Andy Sullivan to win the Race to Dubai title in on Sunday. With this win, the Northern Irishman also won the DP World Tour Championship and finished the year as Europe’s number one golfer. 

Rory McIlroy celebrates after winning the Race to Dubai championship in Dubai on Sunday. Reuters / Paul Childs

McIlroy, who will remain the world number three behind Jason Day and Jordan Spieth despite the win, beat overnight leader Sullivan by one shot to finish at 21-under par 267 for the tournament.

South Africa's Branden Grace finished third with 15-under par 273.

England's Danny Willett finished tied for the fourth place at 13-under par 275.

Going into the 16th hole on the final day, McIlroy built a two-shot lead over the world number 53 Sullivan with back-to-back birdies on the 14th and 15th holes.

However, on the 17th hole he splashed his shot into the water, thereby raising the prospects of a two-shot swing. McIlroy dug deep to make what he called the "best bogey of his career" and limit the damage to one shot.

“It's definitely probably the longest putt I've ever made for a bogey," he said. "I don't think there's been one that's come at a better time. So, yeah, definitely the best bogey of my career."

McIlroy also said that to be European number one was his goal throughout the year.

"Obviously grateful to the European Tour for letting me be a part of The Race to Dubai and letting me play here this week even though I didn't quite play the required minimum events,” he said.

“It was a great way to finish this year and I'm looking forward to playing a full European Tour schedule next year with no hiccups."