DUBAI // Lee Westwood reprised memories of his win in 2009 by topping the leaderboard after Round 1 at the DP World Tour Championship on Thursday. Those hoping to top the European Tour money-list come Sunday, meanwhile, were left scrapping for places in the middle order.
Tied 33rd – Henrik Stenson (Sweden), first in the Race to Dubai, 4,000,562.92 points at the start of the tournament
A fitful start at Earth Course meant the order of merit leader starts Round 2 on even-par, and precisely midway in the field of 60 players. Hardly sparkling, but at least there is no major damage done, with his two closest pursuers only one shot better off.
Tied 24th – Danny Willett (England), second in the Race to Dubai, 299,675.03 points behind Stenson at the start of the tournament
The Masters champion has been battling with his game over the past couple of months, and his opening salvo at Jumeirah Golf Estates was a microcosm of that. Four birdies suggested a game in decent order, but three dropped shots left him at one-under par.
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Tied 24th – Alex Noren (Sweden), Third in the Race to Dubai, 633,436.42 points behind Stenson at the start of the tournament
Noren acknowledged maintaining his stunning run of form would be a tough ask, especially now the stakes are so high. At least he edged ahead of Stenson after his one-under 71 in the opening round, but he needs to join the leaders by the weekend.
55th – Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland), fourth in the Race to Dubai, 1,176,414.37 points behind Stenson at the start of the tournament
McIlroy had such a shocker on Day 1 that he bolted before stopping to talk to the media at the end of his round. That is highly unusual for the even-mannered Northern Irishman. He conceded defeat in the race before the tournament had started. He and Andy Sullivan, the two headline acts here 12 months ago, are tied-55th and 58th this time.
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