McIlroy motoring to Augusta

GOLF sensation Rory McIlroy has given himself an early Christmas present of an Audi S5 to celebrate securing a spot in the top 50 of the world rankings.

McIlroy, who began 2008 at 232nd in the global list, ends the year in 39th, after his joint third place with Ernie Els and Lee Westwood at the South African Open.

The placing also secures his passage to the Masters in April. The 19-year-old, top amateur at last year’s Open Championship, is only 15 months into his professional career, but has already been in two play-offs.

And the former Irish Examiner National Junior Sports Star admits that qualifying for Augusta isn’t the only cause to celebrate this week.

“I always promised myself that if I got in the top 50 I would treat myself to a new car. I’m now the very proud owner of an Audi S5 in black with every extra imaginable. The insurance isn’t very nice but it’s worth it!,” he told his website, www.rorymcilroy.com.

Despite his incredible performance in Paarl, McIlroy admitted he was disappointed with his final round on Sunday.

He held a three-stroke lead over the eventual winner after three rounds, but his final-round 70 was four shots worse off as he ended with a total of 13-under 275.

And that score could have been much better had the 19-year-old not begun with two double bogeys on his opening two holes.

“I really put myself in with a chance to win the tournament but the birdies just didn’t come and I ended up in a tie for third spot along with Lee (Westwood) and Ernie (Els) — which wasn’t too bad after a two double bogey start in the final round. I did climb up the world rankings even more with this finish and will be in the field for the Masters in April next year.”