Relaxed Rory McIlroy returns to Dubai Desert Classic for another shot at glory

What a difference a year makes. Judged by his demeanour during a blustery pro-am ahead of the 2024 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, it would seem as though Rory McIlroy had not a care in the world.

The strong winds blowing off the Arabian Gulf were making it tough for players to control their ball. Even for such a master as McIlroy, let alone the amateurs. The rough at the Emirates Golf Club this week looks fearfully punishing, too.

Plus, just a few days ago down by the Creek, McIlroy had passed up the chance to win on his opening outing of the season with a late, late capitulation at the Dubai Invitational.

And yet he was in a perfectly sprightly mood on his return to the Majlis Course on Wednesday. When spectators asked over the ropes if he would mind signing their souvenir Classic flags, he did not just oblige, but stopped to chat, too.

He bounced into the pre-tournament press briefing ahead of his title defence starting on Thursday full of pep.

It felt like the polar opposite of the same point 12 months ago, when the Northern Irishman arrived in Dubai with the weight of the world of golf on his shoulders.

There had been the storm of the tee peg on the driving range with Patrick Reed. McIlroy revealed the American LIV-rebel had subpoenaed him on Christmas Eve, and was not in the best mood in his presence.

McIlroy was fighting fires on behalf of the established tours against the Saudi-backed newcomer, and it was starting the consume him. Still, somehow, he held on and staved off a challenge from Reed, as he claimed his third Classic title.

Now, McIlroy has been able to set aside his role as the most elite of shop stewards, and is focusing instead on himself. It appears to suit him.

Always enjoy starting my year in Dubai. An