Rory McIlroy falls out of contention at DP World India Championship
McIlroy's bid for an eighth Harry Vardon Trophy was derailed by a disastrous eight‑hole run in the third round in New Delhi.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Rory McIlroy slipped out of contention after a disastrous eight‑hole stretch in the third round of the DP World India Championship in New Delhi, according to the Independent.
What happened
McIlroy entered the third round trailing Race to Dubai rival Eugenio Chacarra, who led after round two with a 67 (10 under par). In the third round McIlroy began with a birdie on the penultimate hole of round two, but on holes three through ten he recorded four bogeys and a double, dropping him ten shots behind Chacarra, who was 14 under after the first seven holes of round three. Play was halted by bad light with Chacarra still ahead by two strokes over Angel Hidalgo and Joost Luiten.
What the reports add
The Independent noted that Chacarra, the Spaniard, added four more birdies in the first seven holes of round three to reach 14 under, while McIlroy’s eight‑hole nightmare included thick rough on the third hole and a sand trap on the fourth where he missed a shot. Both articles from the Independent contain the same details; no other outlet is cited.
What was said
The Independent reported that McIlroy is seeking an eighth Harry Vardon Trophy, which would equal Colin Montgomerie's record, and that Patrick Reed narrowly made the cut at level par before finishing the day six under on the season‑long rankings.
How it came about
McIlroy’s recent form includes a strong finish at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, where he surged back into contention (see Rory McIlroy Surges Back Into Contention at Wentworth). Earlier in the season he also faced a collapse at Wentworth after a promising start (see Rory McIlroy falters after strong start as Aaron Rai leads at Wentworth). The DP World logistics firm has arranged to transport his personal gym to the India Championship (see DP World to transport Rory McIlroy’s personal gym on tour), underscoring the high‑profile nature of his campaign.
Key facts
- Rory McIlroy recorded four bogeys and a double in an eight‑hole stretch during the third round. (independent.co.uk)
- Eugenio Chacarra led the DP World India Championship after round two with 10 under par. (independent.co.uk)
- McIlroy is aiming for an eighth Harry Vardon Trophy, which would match Colin Montgomerie's record. (independent.co.uk)
Timeline
- 2026-09-18 — McIlroy surged back into contention at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
- 2026-09-17 — McIlroy faltered after a strong start at Wentworth, losing the lead.
- 2026-10-14 — DP World announced it will transport McIlroy's personal gym for upcoming tournaments, including the India Championship.
