Rory McIlroy made a notable debut at the DP World India Championship in New Delhi, opting to leave his driver, affectionately known as the “big dog,” out of play.
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Rory McIlroy made a notable debut at the DP World India Championship in New Delhi, opting to leave his driver, affectionately known as the “big dog,” out of play.
Rory McIlroy made a notable debut at the DP World India Championship in New Delhi, opting to leave his driver, affectionately known as the “big dog,” out of play. Instead, the five-time major champion relied solely on irons off the tee, managing an impressive three-under 69 on the challenging Lodhi course at the historic Delhi Golf Club. This par-72 course is shorter than modern standards, at less than 7,000 yards, but its narrow fairways and dense surrounding vegetation demand accuracy over distance.
McIlroy’s choice to avoid using his driver reflects the course’s unique demands, favoring precision over power. “The dog was out of the bag—probably asleep in the locker,” McIlroy said, noting that he did not see any holes where hitting drives beyond 260-270 yards off the tee was beneficial. Despite three bogeys and falling victim to the thick rough, he secured six birdies and stated that keeping the ball in the fairway was crucial due to the unpredictable rough.
Japanese player Keita Nakajima led early with a seven-under 65, setting a high bar. Spain’s Jorge Campillo followed McIlroy with a five-under 67, just one stroke ahead of a tightly packed group at 68. The tournament makes its inaugural appearance with a $4 million purse, featuring Ryder Cup winners and PGA Tour stars like Tommy Fleetwood, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, Brian Harman, and Ben Griffin.
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