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Italy’s Francesco Molinari emerged as the early leader at the 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic after the opening round on Thursday, as the prestigious Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai got under way with a total prize purse of $9 million.
The 43-year-old posted an impressive seven-under-par 65, putting himself in a strong position as he chases his first DP World Tour victory since his Open Championship triumph in 2018. A six-time tour winner, Molinari said he was pleased with his performance, describing it as a positive start despite limited preparation in the lead-up to the event.
Defending champion Tyrrell Hatton of England began his title defence with a two-under 70, while four-time winner Rory McIlroy of Ireland signed for a one-over 73, the same score as England’s Tommy Fleetwood. Spain’s Manuel Elvira, coming off a win at the Dubai Invitational, continued his good form with a three-under 69, while Adrián Otaegui finished at level par. UAE national team captain Ahmed Skaik marked his professional debut at the tournament with a six-over 78.
