DP World Tour Championship Leaderboard: Rory McIlroy Closing In On Double Victory In Dubai

Final Round Begins At Jumeirah Golf Estates With McIlroy Two Shots Off Lead

McIlroy is bidding to become the first player to win both the DP World Tour Rankings and the season-ending DP World Tour Championship in the same year since Henrik Stenson in 2013.

The Northern Irishman moved into contention with a superb seven-under-par 65 on Saturday, which included an eagle and six birdies, leaving him just two shots behind overnight leader Jon Rahm.

Rahm, the world number one, carded a one-under-par 71 to remain at the top of the leaderboard on 14 under, with McIlroy and Tyrrell Hatton in hot pursuit on 12 under.

McIlroy began his third round with a birdie on the first hole and picked up another shot on the fourth before dropping his only shot of the day on the fifth.

He responded with an eagle on the par-five sixth and added three more birdies on the back nine to put himself in prime position to secure his first DP World Tour Championship title since 2015.

"I'm very pleased with my position going into the final round," said McIlroy. "I played really well today, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow.

"I just need to stay patient and keep making birdies. I know Jon is a tough opponent, but I'm confident in my game."

Rahm, who won the tournament in 2017 and 2019, is also in a confident mood heading into the final round.

"I'm in a good position, but I can't afford to make any mistakes," said Rahm. "Rory is playing very well, so I'm going to have to be at my best."

Hatton, who started the day four shots off the lead, kept himself in contention with a solid round of 68.

The Englishman made four birdies and dropped just one shot on the 16th hole.

"I'm happy with my round today," said Hatton. "I made some key putts and hit some great shots.

"I'm still in the mix, so I'm looking forward to giving it my all tomorrow."

The final round of the DP World Tour Championship is set to begin at 8:30am local time on Sunday, with McIlroy, Rahm, and Hatton set to tee off in the final group.

A thrilling finish is in prospect, with all three players capable of claiming the title and the DP World Tour Rankings crown.