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.