Marco Penge: Guys in my age group look up to Rory McIlroy not just as a golfer but as a person

Penge has enjoyed a superb season on the DP World Tour, winning three events. He is second in the race to Dubai, 500 points behind McIlroy. 

Marco Penge has risen to 29th in the world rankings. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Marco Penge will play in a group with Rory McIlroy for the first time at this week's Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links. It's a thought which excites the 27-year-old Englishman who has enjoyed a superb season on the DP World Tour.

"I actually did ask him in Ireland a couple of months ago to get a practice round at some point but haven't crossed paths and timing's not worked out," said Penge.