Hillier takes lead as McIlroy lurks at Dubai Desert Classic

Daniel Hillier will take a one-shot lead into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic after birdieing the last two holes at Emirates Golf Club.

The New Zealander had been four shots clear at one stage on Saturday after three birdies in his first five holes at the Majlis Course.

However, three consecutive bogeys from the 13th left the door ajar for the chasing pack and England’s Tyrrell Hatton took full advantage with a 68 to set the clubhouse target at 12 under par.

Hillier responded with a birdie from six feet at the 17th then cleared the water by a whisker with his second to the last to set up a routine up-and-down gain as he signed for a two-under 70.

The 26-year-old will go in search of a second DP World Tour title tomorrow, and first Rolex Series victory, following his breakthrough win at the 2023 Betfred British Masters hosted by Sir Nick Faldo.

“It was a grind,” said Hillier. “I figured it was going to be that at the start of the day with all that wind. It was tough but I enjoyed it out there. I’ll have a crack at it tomorrow.

“It would be life-changing (to win). Last year was pretty tough. It was a bit of a grind. I was getting pretty frustrated with myself towards the end of the year. I gave myself a little bit of a break and time to reset, and I’m feeling refreshed. I’m excited for tomorrow.”

Meanwhile Hatton, a seven-time DP World Tour winner, is keen to add another “iconic event” to his impressive CV with a win on Sunday equalling Jon Rahm’s record of five Rolex Series titles.

“It’s an iconic event on the DP World Tour, and I think it’s certainly one of those events that you could probably ask any player out here, and it’s one that they would love to have on their C.V.,” said Hatton.

“I’ll go out there tomorrow and give it my absolute best, which is all I can do, and see how we go tomorrow.”

Overnight leader Ewen Ferguson shot a two-over 74 to lie third on ten under, with England’s Laurie Canter and New Zealand’s Ryan Fox tied for fourth a shot further back. Huge crowds enjoy the on and off course action

In what was the busiest day in recent memory, the tournament was fully sold out across all ticket types on Saturday, and Sunday looks set to be the same, as huge crowds enjoy the on and off course action at the HDDC.

Those lucky enough to have secured a ticket can look forward to more than legendary golf at Tournament Town where there will be music, entertainment, roaming performers, games, competitions, kids play areas, sustainability-themed workshops, free glitter face painting and more.

From 6pm there will be live music by Shaliama Band Masters and DJ Greene until late. In addition, a vast selection of delicious local and international food and beverage options will be available.

There’s more to look forward to tomorrow with the Step Fore It challenge, a new initiative that celebrates the health benefits of golf by encouraging spectators to get active and rack up as many steps as possible during their visit.

Participants can register from 7am as they enter, and there’s prizes for the top five participants each day. There are even more ways for visitors to enhance their wellbeing at the HDDC at the Mediclinic stand where they can have free health and wellness assessments.

There is also an exciting opportunity for Roblox fans to play a specially created Hero Dubai Desert Classic Just Swing game - and there are big prizes up for grabs.

All ticket types for Sunday are sold out. Those who have successfully registered for tickets should make sure they do not miss the action - or they can easily transfer any spare tickets to family and friends through the Hero Dubai Desert Classic App.

Agencies