RORY MCLLROY HAS RETURNED to the top of golf's world rankings after his CJ Cup win in South Carolina last weekend.
The last time the Holywood native sat atop golf's world rankings list was more than two years ago. This is the ninth time in his career he's been at no.1
The 33-year-old has had a brilliant year, winning the RBC Canadian Open in June. He followed that up with a third Tour Championship win in August, which meant he went onto claim his third FedEx Cup victory, surpassing Tiger Woods's two.
Mcllroy nearly won the BMW PGA Championship but lost out to Shane Lowry by one shot.
He's now added to his trophy tally with the CJ Cup. He shot a four-under-par 67 to finish the tournament on 17 under.
American Kurt Kitayama also hit 67 on Sunday, and nearly got the better of the Northern Irishman, but three straight birdies ensured another victory for Mcllroy.
The win now means it's his 23rd PGA Tour win.
Can’t ask for a better start to the season than this. Extremely proud of the work that I have put in to get back to World No. 1. So grateful for the support of my team and fans all over the world. @congareegolf is an incredible place and the fans this week were amazing. pic.twitter.com/LHK9PfQdSa
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) October 24, 2022
"It means a lot," said an emotional McIlroy after the win
"I've worked so hard over the past 12 months to get myself back to this place. I feel like I'm enjoying this game as much as I ever have.
"I absolutely love the game of golf and when I go out there and play with that joy, it has definitely showed over these past 12 months. It feels awesome."
The win now means he climbs above 2022 Masters champion Scottie Scheffler into first place.
The American finished in a tie for 45th on one under
"It's a big achievement, I'm really proud of myself right now," Mcllroy added.
"The journey of trying to get the best out of myself, that's the satisfying thing. Now it's all about going forward and trying to just keep this going.
"I never feel like I've figured this game out, I don't think I ever will figure it out, but every day I wake up trying to get closer."
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