Rory backs himself to qualify for Dubai

Rory McIlroy has not won all season, has gone from world No 1 to sixth in the rankings and is 62nd on a European Tour money list, which he won last year to go with the US equivalent and five victories, including a second Major title.

But the bookmakers surprisingly agree with a buoyant McIlroy’s assertion that he is more likely to win the WGC-HSBC Champions event in Shanghai this week than miss out on the season finale in Dubai.

“It’s a big week obviously, it’s sort of make or break,” said McIlroy, who faces a field featuring 40 of the world’s top 50 at Sheshan International Golf Club. If I don’t play good enough here, then there’s a good chance I won’t play in Dubai. I think there’s a bigger chance of me winning this tournament than not playing in Dubai, I feel.”