Rory McIlroy has lent his name to a newly established trophy that will honor the top performer in the Majors on the DP World Tour each year. However, the Masters champion himself is ineligible to win this accolade.
After becoming the first European to achieve a career Grand Slam by triumphing at Augusta in April, McIlroy now sees the introduction of the Rory McIlroy Award prior to the season-ending DP World Tour Championships. This award recognizes the tour member who excels across all four Major Championships in a single season.
Despite the honor, McIlroy humorously acknowledged his ineligibility, stating, “It would be cool but I am ineligible for it. I thought it would be better if I wasn’t. I think it was a decision made by all of us. We thought it was best if I would be ineligible for it.”
McIlroy joins an exclusive group of players with awards named after them on the DP World Tour, acknowledging his exceptional on-course performances and unwavering support for the tour. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s a huge honor. In 2008, it was the Sir Henry Cotton Award (Rookie of the Year) I was trying to get to. Then trying to win Harry Vardon (Race to Dubai winner) trophies and Seve Ballesteros (Players’ Player of the Year) awards.”
The golfer looks forward to the future, anticipating the presentation of the award bearing his name to the deserving winner once the major championships conclude next year. McIlroy, now aged 36, achieved a career Grand Slam, becoming only the sixth man to do so. He shared that discussions about the award began with DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings following his victory at Augusta.
McIlroy reflected on the significance of having an award named after him, emphasizing the legacy it could leave for future generations. He highlighted the importance of being associated with esteemed figures in golf history and expressed his appreciation for the recognition.
Currently, McIlroy aims to defend his title at the DP World Tour Championships and secure a fourth consecutive Race to Dubai victory, potentially surpassing his record alongside Ballesteros. Reflecting on his sustained success, McIlroy acknowledged the challenges of maintaining excellence over the years.
Having finished tied for third in Abu Dhabi, McIlroy remains optimistic about his game and hopes to continue his strong performance in the upcoming tournament.