McIlroy and Hatton Share Dubai Halfway Lead

On November 13, Rory McIlroy salvaged a difficult second round with a birdie at the final hole to join Tyrrell Hatton at five under par after 36 holes of the World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. McIlroy shot a two-under 70; Hatton carded 69. They are set to play together in Saturday’s third round.

McIlroy had picked up four birdies in his first 10 holes before three bogeys over a six-hole stretch. Wind, thick rough and slick greens made scoring difficult. “I feel like I salvaged the day a bit with that birdie,” he said.

The four-time tournament winner is also trying to claim a record-tying eighth Race to Dubai title. Eugenio Chacarra, who began the week ahead of McIlroy in the season standings, is four shots off the lead after a 71. He finished with two birdies, including a chip-in at the last. The tournament winner earns 2,000 points, while second place is worth 1,335, leaving the season title in play.

Jon Rahm is three strokes back after a second consecutive 71 and needs a strong finish to remain in the season-title contest. Patrick Reed, third in the standings before the event, is eight over par after a 77 and appears out of contention. Two rounds remain.