David Ford was playing like one of the best amateurs in the world at the end of 2024. It's no surprise he starts 2025 on top of the leaderboard.

Although Rory McIlroy may eventually share Jon Rahm's optimism about the state of professional golf, he currently does not believe the sport is in its "golden era" -- as the Spaniard suggested on Tuesday.

McIlroy has been speaking on behalf of the PGA Tour's side for the entire LIV Golf saga. Rahm was on his side for two years before jumping to the rival tour in late 2023. The division in golf's professional ranks has tanked television ratings but the recreational side of the sport has boomed in recent years.

Rory McIlroy reflects on his first competitive round of golf in 2025 at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, explaining the challenges posed by Emirates Golf Club and why he did a "good job" of scrambling.

Defending champion Rory McIlroy had to settle for a “scrappy” opening round of 70 in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Seeking a third straight win at Emirates Golf Club, McIlroy carded four birdies and two bogeys to lie five shots off the lead shared by American amateur David Ford,