Marco Penge excited about big-hitting battle with ‘best in generation’ Rory McIlroy in Abu Dhabi

Marco Penge Eyes Big Battle with Rory McIlroy in Abu Dhabi

Marco Penge is eager to challenge Rory McIlroy for the lead in the Race to Dubai at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship held at Yas Links. The 27-year-old English golfer has risen rapidly in the sport since maintaining his tour card last season.

Background and Recent Achievements

Penge faced a three-month suspension by the DP World Tour in December for betting on golf tournaments, though not on himself or events he played in. Since returning, he has had an impressive 2025 season, winning the Hainan Classic, Danish Golf Championship, and the recent Open de España. His victories secured him one of ten PGA Tour cards available.

Current Standings and Goals

Penge currently ranks second behind Masters champion Rory McIlroy, who aims to clinch his seventh Harry Vardon Trophy as Europe’s top golfer at the upcoming DP World Tour Championship.

"Obviously my goal once I didn't qualify for the Ryder Cup— I think I played Irish Open, and I thought, now my goal is to catch Rory," Penge said. "That goal is kind of over in a way, but now that I've won in Spain and got me back in the mix, I'm trying to win this week or next week or just play as good as I can and see where that ends up."

Respect for McIlroy

McIlroy, 36, is one of Penge’s golfing idols. Despite never having played alongside McIlroy, world number 29 Penge looks forward to measuring his game against the Holywood star during the competition.

Author’s summary: Marco Penge aims to surpass Rory McIlroy in the Race to Dubai, fueled by recent wins and a readiness to test his skills against one of golf’s current greats.

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The Irish Independent The Irish Independent — 2025-11-04

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