Matt Fitzpatrick edged out Rory McIlroy in a playoff to take the DP World Tour Championship, capping off an impressive return to form.
After a difficult stretch in 2024, Fitzpatrick has looked far more like himself in 2025, and his win over McIlroy in Dubai highlighted that resurgence.
The 31-year-old needed only a par on the first playoff hole, with the Northern Irishman dropping a shot after finding water and then the bunker.
But with their close Ryder Cup connection, Fitzpatrick had nothing but praise for McIlroy after the victory.
Matt Fitzpatrick hails Rory McIlroy after sealing the DP World Tour Championship
These are two players who have been in plenty of big moments, and each brings a level of poise and experience to their game.
McIlroy is the household name in European golf, while Fitzpatrick tends to keep a lower profile despite his success.
After his win, Fitzpatrick made sure to recognise what makes the Northern Irishman special.
He said: “It means the world. I struggled at the start of this year, obviously, and to turn it round this summer and have a Ryder Cup like I did. The Ryder Cup I feel like it’s hard to top, but the way that I played today, I feel like I only really hit one bad shot all day.
“I am so proud of myself. The effort everyone in my team puts in and behind the scenes. What a feeling!
“I had not been hitting it amazing all week. I really hit it well yesterday and I hit it well today. Dan was insistent on just being patient and letting the putts come. Nothing was really going my way but I managed to roll a couple in late and get myself in position.”
Asked if he expected McIlroy to force extra holes when he came down 18 two shots back, Fitzpatrick did not hesitate.
“Of course you do. He’s one of the only few where you know you are going to a playoff. You are two clear with one to play and you know you are going to a playoff. In typical Rory fashion he did it again and you never like to see the way it ends, but obviously delighted.”
How Matt Fitzpatrick’s 2025 PGA Tour season played out
Being part of a winning Ryder Cup team and taking the DP World Tour Championship gave Fitzpatrick plenty to be proud of in 2025.
He was open about his slow start to the year, but once things began to click, the improvement was clear, and he finished strong.
Towards the end of the season, Fitzpatrick put together four consecutive top-ten finishes, including an impressive T4 at The Open.
| Event | Finish |
| Scottish Open | T4 |
| The Open | T4 |
| Rocket Classic | T8 |
| Wyndham Championship | T8 |
| PGA Championship | T8 |
Looking ahead to 2026, he will feel like his game is right where it needs to be to challenge for majors again. There is every reason for him to be confident going into next season.
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