Daniel Hillier leads the Dubai Desert Classic with Rory McIlroy 7 shots back

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Daniel Hillier birdied the final two holes to shoot a 2-under 70 on Saturday and take a one-stroke lead into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic as the 223rd-ranked New Zealander goes for the biggest win of his career.

Tyrrell Hatton shot 68 in the third round and was the closest rival to the 26-year-old Hillier, whose only European Tour victory came at the British Masters in July 2023. He has not finished in the top 10 since winning. It opens in España in October 2023.

Hillier was 13-under in a week.

“It can be life-changing,” Hillier said.

“Last year was very difficult. It was very difficult. I was very frustrated with myself towards the end of the year. I gave myself a little break and time to reset, and I feel refreshed. Yes. , I am excited for tomorrow.”

Rory McIlroy, seeking a third straight title at the prestigious tournament, shot seven shots from the 12th hole after a round of 69. He was 1 over after nine, failing to make a single birdie.

“I’m going to have to go out and shoot 63 tomorrow,” said No. 3-ranked McIlroy. “When the conditions are right, I’ve been able to do that before, especially if you can score on the front nine before that team on the back nine.

“My key tomorrow is if I can start early and shoot three or four (under) ahead, I’ll have a chance.”

Scotland’s Ewen Ferguson led after the second round but managed to shoot a 74 to drop to third place at 10 under, three strokes behind Hillier.

Hatton, who plays on the LIV Golf circuit, looks to be a serious threat to Hillier. The seven-time European Tour champion rolled in an 8-foot putt for eagle on No. 2 and recovered from three bogeys in the six-hole stretch to close the front 9 with four birdies and five pars to come home.

“I remember as a kid waking up early on Thursday and Friday mornings and being excited to watch the Desert Classic,” said 17th-ranked Hatton. “It’s the iconic event on the DP World Tour, and I think it’s one of those events you can ask any player here, and it’s one they’d like to have on their CV.”