• European Tour

Tiger and McIlroy head Abu Dhabi field

ESPN staff
October 17, 2012
Rory McIlroy will be hoping to cement his No. 1 ranking in Abu Dhabi © Getty Images
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Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods will have the chance to resume their rivalry early next season at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.

McIlroy, who failed to justify his top billing at the World Golf Final in Turkey last week, will hope to rediscover his form to maintain his lead in the Race to Dubai.

The two-time major winner has enjoyed a top-three finish at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club for the last three years, but has never got his hands on the prestigious falcon trophy.

"I've come close a few times in Abu Dhabi now - hopefully it's my turn," McIlroy said. "This will be the first time I've headed to Abu Dhabi as world No. 1 and I'm determined to keep the wins coming and cement my ranking.

"The strength of the field means there will be a ton of world ranking points on offer so Abu Dhabi will be a really significant tournament that sets the tone for the year. I had a great tussle with Tiger nine months ago and I'm sure he'll be in contention again.

"We've spent a lot of time playing together this year and it's always fun challenging the best. I've made no secret of the fact he's a hero of mine and there's nothing better than tussling with your heroes."

"I had heard so much about Abu Dhabi in the past and I was very impressed by the crowds, the organisation and the overall atmosphere," Woods added. "I really enjoyed my time in Abu Dhabi and I wanted to return, particularly as I played well and came so close last year. I'd love nothing more than to win in January and start the season in the best possible way."

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