Marco Penge: Players My Age Admire Rory McIlroy as a Golfer and a Person
Marco Penge has had an outstanding season on the DP World Tour, securing three victories and climbing to second place in the Race to Dubai standings, just 500 points behind Rory McIlroy. The 27-year-old English golfer is set to play alongside McIlroy for the first time at this week’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links, an opportunity he finds especially motivating.
"I actually did ask him in Ireland a couple of months ago to get a practice round at some point but haven't crossed paths and timing's not worked out," said Penge.
Penge expressed deep respect for McIlroy, viewing him as both a role model and a benchmark for his own game.
"For me, he's the best player in my generation of kind of watching golf. He's been so successful, and I think a lot of guys in my age group really look up to him not just as a golfer but as a person."
He added that he often measures his own play against McIlroy’s performance.
"I compare a lot of parts of my game to him. I am excited to see what I think my strengths are compared to him on Thursday and see where I can improve."
Penge’s Remarkable Turnaround
Last season, Penge narrowly kept his tour card after finishing 110th in the Race to Dubai standings. Shortly after, he faced a three-month suspension for betting on golf. His comeback this year has been impressive, claiming titles at the Hainan Classic, the Danish Golf Championship, and the Spanish Open. Now ranked 29th globally, Penge continues his pursuit of McIlroy at the top of the leaderboard.
Author’s Summary
Penge’s resurgence from a near-exit to a top contender reflects his determination and respect for McIlroy, whose influence shapes a new generation of golfers.