News

The Debrief - Dubai Duty Free Irish Open

A superb 62 in Sunday's final round saw Jon Rahm come from behind to win the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open for the second time.

Perks : Free use of the golf and fitness facilities at Wentworth Club in the UK and Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, plus discounts on major golf and clothing manufacturers​

The World Number Eight now has four European Tour titles to his name and has the honour of being the first player to win three Rolex Series events.

Meanwhile, three more players booked their places at The Open Championship and we saw some remarkable shots on the links.

Here, we take a look at some of the highlights from an entertaining week at Lahinch Golf Club.

Rahm's Rolex Series success continues

There is something about the Rolex Series which brings out the very best in Jon Rahm. Two years ago, Rahm opened his European Tour account with victory at the Irish Open in what was his rookie season. The Spaniard capped a remarkable 2017 campaign by claiming another Rolex Series title at the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai before going on to win the Open de España on home soil in 2018. Rahm showed the Irish crowds what he was capable of once again at Lahinch last week, following up rounds of 67, 71 and 64 with a closing 62 on Sunday to win by two shots and become the first man to claim three Rolex Series titles. And when he is not winning, he is coming pretty close. Check out his Rolex Series record...

Rock rolls into The Open thanks to stunning 60

Robert Rock added a new chapter to his Irish Open story on Saturday. Ten years after taking home the winner's cheque but not the trophy as he lost to Irish amateur Shane Lowry in a play-off at County Louth Golf Club, Rock made six closing birdies in his third round to sign for a 60. His sensational score is the lowest in the tournament's history and equals the lowest ever at a Rolex Series event. He even had a putt for an eagle and a 59 on the last but had to settle for a closing birdie. "That's the first chance I've had to do it," he said. "It's disappointing not to but 60 is a great score. It's my best score." Rock's final-round 70 saw him finish in a tie for fourth, earning him a place at The Open Championship. He will be joined by fellow Englishman Paul Waring and Austrian Bernd Wiesberger at Royal Portrush Golf Club.

Spectacular Spaniards

Rahm stole the headlines as he became only the second Spaniard to win the Irish Open more than once, following in the footsteps of Seve Ballesteros, who tasted victory in 1983, 1985 and 1986. But he was not the only man from Spain to shine in Ireland this week. Rafa Cabrera Bello finished in a tie for fourth on 13 under par after shooting four rounds in the 60s, while in-form Jorge Campillo was another stroke back in a tie for seventh. Adri Arnaus continued to impress in his rookie campaign, following up his runner-up finish at the Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucía Masters hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation by finishing in a share of 15th.

Don't you just love links golf?

We were treated to some memorable moments which only links golf could ever produce in County Clare. Sit back, relax and watch in awe as some of the European Tour's very best make it look easy...

Read next