Rising Golf Star Ready for First Ever Rory McIlroy Battle
England’s Marco Penge expressed his excitement about being paired with Masters champion Rory McIlroy at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. It marks the first time the English golfer will compete alongside McIlroy in a professional event.
Penge has enjoyed a remarkable season after returning from suspension due to a betting breach. He captured the Hainan Classic title in April, followed by victories in Denmark and Spain, which elevated him in the Race to Dubai rankings. This strong form even sparked speculation that Luke Donald might pick him for the 2025 Ryder Cup team.
First Playoff Leg in Abu Dhabi
This week, Penge is among seventy players competing in the opening leg of the playoffs at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. He is grouped with the 36-year-old Masters winner McIlroy and European Ryder Cup star Tyrrell Hatton for the event’s opening rounds.
Pre-Tournament Thoughts
Speaking to reporters ahead of the tournament, Penge shared that he had long wanted to play a practice round with McIlroy and now gets that opportunity during official play. He emphasized confidence and energy as key feelings going into the week.
"I'm playing with one of the best players in the world for the first time,"
he said, adding that while he doesn’t expect nerves, he knows the adrenaline will be running high.
Author’s Summary
Marco Penge, returning from suspension, faces his idol Rory McIlroy for the first time as he continues a breakout season marked by multiple wins and rising rankings.