Rory McIlroy and Marco Penge delivered an impressive display of long drives off the tee in Abu Dhabi, thrilling fans with a 377-yard blast and an accurate drive onto a par-four green during their opening round duel.
Penge, making his debut in the DP World Tour playoffs, faced off against McIlroy, the Grand Slam champion and Race to Dubai leader, in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. Despite his relative inexperience, Penge matched McIlroy’s power and composure throughout the day.
The pairing attracted major attention, as both players are known for their distance and aggressive play. Competing at Yas Links Golf Club, McIlroy reached a par-four green with his drive, while Penge unleashed a massive 377-yard shot on a par-five, highlighting the intensity of their contest.
In his first major moment under such bright lights, Penge performed with confidence and poise, showing that he could handle the pressure of competing alongside one of golf’s biggest stars. The Englishman even edged out McIlroy by a single shot, carding a five-under 67 to McIlroy’s 68.
“It was great,” said Penge after the round.
Marco Penge impressed in Abu Dhabi, going shot-for-shot with Rory McIlroy and finishing one stroke ahead in a powerful showcase of driving and composure.