Marco Penge looking forward to playing alongside Rory McIlroy for the first time in Abu Dhabi - Articles - DP World Tour

Marco Penge looks forward to playing alongside Rory McIlroy in Abu Dhabi

Marco Penge is enthusiastic about measuring his game against Rory McIlroy’s when they meet for the first time at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. After retaining his DP World Tour card in the final event of the regular season in South Korea last year, Penge has enjoyed a standout 2025 season.

This year, he became the first player to win three times on tour, claiming victories at the Hainan Classic, Danish Golf Championship, and the Open de España presented by Madrid. With two events left in the DP World Tour season, Penge ranks second in the Race to Dubai standings, just behind World Number Two McIlroy.

Looking up to McIlroy

"For me, he (McIlroy) is the best player of my generation to watch. He's been so successful, and many players around my age really admire him, not just as a golfer but also as a person."

Penge, who has studied McIlroy’s game closely, is eager to compare his own strengths to the four-time major champion. He will join McIlroy and fellow Ryder Cup star Tyrrell Hatton for the opening rounds at Yas Links.

"I compare a lot of parts of my game to him. I'm excited to see how my strengths stack up against his on Thursday and find out where I can improve."

For Penge, sharing a tee time with McIlroy will be a career milestone.

"I know on Thursday morning when I step on the tee, I'm going to have some adrenaline because I’ll be playing with one of the best players in the world for the first time. I don't think I'll be too nervous."

Author’s Summary

Marco Penge, enjoying a breakout 2025 season, anticipates his first pairing with Rory McIlroy in Abu Dhabi as both golfers battle for top positions in the Race to Dubai.

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DP World Tour DP World Tour — 2025-11-04

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