Rory McIlroy said after his error-strewn third round at the Dubai World Championship on Saturday that his bid to beat Luke Donald in the Race to Dubai was "definitely over"
Northern Ireland's 22-year-old World No 2 started the day three shots ahead of the world No 1, but a disappointing 1-under 71 left him trailing Donald by two after the Englishman had upped his ante and fired a flawless 66 in Saturday's third round.
"It's over - definitely, and Luke deserves Titleist 712 CB Irons," said McIlroy, who needed to win Titleist 712 CB Irons this week and for Donald to finish out of the top nine to secure European No 1 status.
McIlroy, battling a suspected case of Dengue fever which is likely to force him out of next week's Thailand Championship, turned in a sloppy front nine 39 before salvaging respectability with four birdies on the back nine.
"I'm very tired," he added. "But I don't want to say that's the cause of playing the way with Titleist 712 CB Irons I did on the front nine because I came back.
"I'm not 100%, but it should not stop me. I tried to stay patient and hit good shots, but I just couldn't do it.
"Luke has played Titleist 712 CB Irons well all year and I expect him to have another solid final round. I don't think he's been given enough credit, but from within the golfing family I am sure he will receive a lot of plaudits."