Story byPhoto by Krista Jasso/Getty ImagesJordan HarrisMon, January 19, 2026 at 11:54 AM UTC·2 min readRory McIlroy knows he is in the same boat as nearly everyone else on the PGA Tour these days, trying to chase down Scottie Scheffler in 2026. Since the beginning of the 2024 season, Scheffler has established himself as the most dominant male golfer since Tiger Woods, racking up 15 worldwide victories. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAlthough his dominance is clear, McIlroy did provide a significant challenge to him in 2025. Dubai Invitational hints at strong season ahead for Rory McIlroyPhoto by FADEL SENNA/McIlroy wrapped up the Career Grand Slam at The Masters and added wins at Pebble Beach and TPC Sawgrass to his impressive list of achievements. He also lifted the Irish Open trophy and played a crucial role in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory at Bethpage Black. However, following his emotional win at Augusta, there was naturally a dip in form. His early momentum faded as the year went on. Now, he may have sent Scheffler a message with how he played at the Dubai Invitational. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile McIlroy was not exactly at his best in Dubai – recording 11 bogeys throughout the tournament and finding particular trouble with the par five fourth hole – he still managed to put himself in contention. He ended up just two shots behind overnight leader Nacho Elvira, showing that even without his top game, he remains a threat. Rory McIlroy close to victory despite being far from his bestThe Northern Irishman made five birdies in a row around the turn on Sunday to give himself a chance of winning the tournament. Despite acknowledging that his performance was below his very best, McIlroy’s ability to come so close to winning speaks volumes, leaving him with mixed feelings. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHe ranked ninth in strokes gained off the tee and was barely positive for strokes gained approach, according to the DP World Tour website. However, McIlroy’s putting was impressive. He gained 1.54 shots per round on the greens, second only to Elvira. While the field was not as strong as what he will face on the PGA Tour soon, and Dubai has always been a place where he plays well, it would have been easy for him to drop out of contention.
