Hatton and McIlroy Focus on Festive Tales Over LIV Golf Tensions in Dubai
Any lingering speculation about tension between Rory McIlroy and Tyrrell Hatton during the opening round of the Dubai Desert Classic was swiftly dismissed by the English golfer, who revealed their conversation centred on wines and weight rather than fines. This comes after McIlroy used pre-tournament media duties to assert that Hatton and Jon Rahm should settle their substantial penalties to the European Tour Group for their involvement in LIV Golf.
No Ill Feeling on the Course as Ryder Cup Teammates Reunite
Despite McIlroy's pointed comments, which felt particularly notable given he was paired with Hatton for the first two rounds at the Emirates Club, there appeared to be no animosity between the Ryder Cup teammates. Hatton emphasised this in his post-round remarks, stating, "We didn't really talk about that." Instead, he shared that their dialogue was far more light-hearted, focusing on personal anecdotes from the festive season.
"It was me mainly asking if he had any good wine over Christmas," Hatton explained. "It was better than the wine I was drinking but my wine was very nice, too. And then he was horrified to hear what weight I was on 1 January." Hatton disclosed he weighed 204lbs at the start of the year, a significant increase from his 190lbs weight before the Ryder Cup, attributing it to a December of indulgence with zero cardio and ample drinking, including enjoying a Guinness tap at home.
Hatton's Perspective on McIlroy's Comments and Game Performance
Hatton expressed no interest in falling out with McIlroy over the LIV Golf issue, acknowledging, "I ended up seeing what was said. And as he said, that's his opinion. Everyone is allowed an opinion. I guess something will get sorted, hopefully, soon. I think everyone is pretty keen for that to happen." On the course, Hatton's performance was impressive, carding a two under par 70 despite visible rust in his game. He humorously noted, "I was turning like the Titanic out there. I can't move, I still feel pretty stiff. This still feels early for me," highlighting the skill of top golfers in posting solid rounds when not at their best.
McIlroy, similarly off his A-game, finished with a 73, matched by Tommy Fleetwood, the third member of their high-profile group. Meanwhile, Francesco Molinari stole the spotlight with a stellar 65, rolling back the years and discussing the Ryder Cup captaincy. Molinari, seen as a backup if Luke Donald declines a third term, expressed support for Donald, saying, "I think we were all wishing for him to come back one more time... Obviously I'd never say no. I'd never turn it down if I'm asked. I'd love to do it but if it doesn't happen, there's no issue with me with that." Donald withdrew from the tournament due to illness, missing the opening round.
