World Number Two, Rory McIlroy kick-started the 35th edition of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic week with an impressive stunt on top of the iconic Atlantis The Royal, Dubai.

The defending champion of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic is in search of his fourth Dallah trophy as the USD 9 million Rolex Series event gets underway today at Emirates Golf Club.

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The unique setting of the stunt provided the perfect start to the week, with McIlroy creating a ‘hole-in-one’ scene to mark the 24-hour countdown until the region’s longest-running golf event commences.

McIlroy, a previous resident in Dubai, claimed his first professional DP World Tour victory on the Majlis in this very event in 2009. Victory number two came in 2015, while he beat American Patrick Reed down the stretch 12 months ago to match Ernie Els as the only three-time winner’s of the Dallah trophy.

Rory McIlroy has won the Hero Dubai Desert Classic three times and is the defending champion. Hero Dubai Desert Classic

The Northern Irishman expressed his excitement; “I’m thrilled to be back on the Majlis this weekend, a course filled with cherished memories, especially from last year’s triumphant finish.

“Dubai holds a special place in my heart, and the dynamic evolution of the city is truly awe-inspiring. The view from where we stand is a testament to that, and I am really looking forward to this weekend’s event.”

McIlroy is joined by reigning Open Champion Brian Harman, Dubai resident’s Tommy Fleetwood and Adrian Meronk, plus World Top 20 player Tyrrell Hatton and PGA TOUR star Cameron Young who are just a few players among the star-studded names set to play at Emirates Golf Club this weekend.

Fans attending the historic 35th edition of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic can look forward to a thrilling weekend on and off the course, with exciting additions to the new-look Tournament Town providing fun for all the family.

All-new vantage points located across the illustrious Majlis course will provide golf enthusiasts with stunning views of the city skyline and incredible viewing points to witness the action on display.

FREE general admission tickets are still available but limited, get yours now on dubaidesertclassic.com and via the Hero Dubai Desert Classic app available on App Store or Google Play. For more information, please visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com.

Organisers are also encouraging fans to use the Metro service to travel to and from the tournament, with Al Khail station located directly outside the club’s main entrance, with limited parking available for the event.

Image: David Cannon / Getty Images