Rory McIlroy on Off-Season Preparation and the Appeal of Middle East Golf
01/17/2026 by Matthias Gräf
Rory McIlroy reflects on the unique appeal of playing in the Middle East, highlighting the opportunity to work on his game during the off-season and the enthusiasm that comes with starting a new year fresh.
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Rory McIlroy reflects on the unique appeal of playing in the Middle East, highlighting the opportunity to work on his game during the off-season and the enthusiasm that comes with starting a new year fresh.
The start of a new golf season often brings renewed motivation for players, and Rory McIlroy is no exception. Speaking about his experiences on the DP World Tour, McIlroy emphasized how the winter break offers a valuable chance to focus on improvements without the pressure of competition.
Off-Season Preparation and Motivation
McIlroy mentioned that the Christmas period provides a window to work on specific aspects of his game. This time off allows him to recharge mentally and physically, setting a solid foundation for the challenges ahead. The fresh start of the year brings enthusiasm that fuels his training and competitive mindset.
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Why the Middle East Holds a Special Place
Having played multiple events in the region, McIlroy expressed his fondness for the Middle East, particularly Dubai. The combination of world-class courses, excellent facilities, and the atmosphere of the tournaments makes it a favored destination on the DP World Tour schedule. The region’s events often mark the beginning of the season, setting the tone for the months to come.
Looking Ahead on the DP World Tour
The DP World Tour continues to attract top talent, with players like McIlroy using these early-season tournaments to build momentum. His approach of balancing rest with focused practice is a strategy many professionals adopt to maintain peak performance throughout the demanding golf calendar.
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