The 2024 DP World Tour Championship is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the European Tour season, with the world’s top golfers heading to Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai from November 14 to 17. The season finale, held on the Earth Course, promises an exciting blend of high-stakes golf, as players vie for not only the tournament title but also crucial points to top the Race to Dubai standings.
Top Contender: Rory McIlroy
Rory McIlroy leads the betting market at 19/5 currently with Rhino and will tee it up at the Earth Course, ahead of his likely coronation as rankings winner. Finishing third last week and with numerous second-place finishes this season, he will be the one to beat. McIlroy has a golden opportunity to secure a sixth Race to Dubai title by winning the DP World Tour Championship for a third time.
Absence of Jon Rahm
With no Jon Rahm, who qualified but elected not to play, who else could challenge Rory?
Key Players to Watch
Joaquin Niemann
Joaquin Niemann is in form and, had it not been for a cold putter last week, could have finished higher up at the Abu Dhabi Championship. Expect him to be in contention and potentially among the leaders come Sunday.
Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrell Hatton
Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrell Hatton are also high on the betting list. Their consistent performances throughout the season make them formidable contenders for the title.
Robert MacIntyre
One further down to look at may well be Scottish golfer Robert MacIntyre. Twice a winner in 2024, contended here in 2020 and 2021, and returning with his game in good shape. If on form this week, he looks very likely to feature prominently. Currently, MacIntyre is at 18/1.
The Big Lie of the Week: Thriston Lawrence
The big lie of the week, however, is South African Thriston Lawrence. Tied for 6th last week with a closing round of 64, his game is looking in good shape. Lawrence has had a great season, winning in his native South Africa and securing a number of top 5 finishes, including 4th at The Open. At 28/1 at Rhino, there is some each-way value to be had backing a confident player aiming to end the year on a high.
The Course: Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates
The Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates is known for its demanding layout, featuring water hazards and risk-reward opportunities, particularly on the back nine. With wide fairways and large, undulating greens, it tests every aspect of a player’s game. Holes 17 and 18 provide dramatic finishes with water in play, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
What’s at Stake
The DP World Tour Championship offers one of the largest prize pools on the tour, and players will be fighting for more than just the win. The Race to Dubai title and the bonus pool are also on the line, with top players eyeing a share of the lucrative end-of-season payouts.
Expect plenty of excitement and a possible playoff, as this stellar field battles it out to end the season on top. With some of the world’s best golfers all in peak form, the 2024 DP World Tour Championship could be one of the most memorable editions yet.
Prediction
Thriston Lawrence to Win – 28/1