shane lowry

The undisputed world number one made a typically unflappable return to action at Pebble Beach and he now moves on to the WM Phoenix Open, where he is a clear favourite to secure a third victory in four years

McIlroy finished a shot outside the tournament record set in 2015.

The Austrian rallied with four late birdies for a one-shot lead heading into the final round.

The 35-year-old made it from the tee on the par-three 15th hole.

As we set out on another huge year of sporting action, Michael McWilliams picks out a few bets to keep you interested in the months ahead

Perhaps the two abiding images from the last 12 months – certainly from an Irish perspective – involved Rory McIlroy, one a picture of delight and the other of enduring pain

Almost all of European golf’s leading lights are in attendance in the United Arab Emirates, led naturally by Rory McIlroy, who is within touching distance of a sixth Order of Merit title

The world number three is playing in his first tournament since his home heartbreak at the Irish Open last week

Lowry added a second round of 69 to his opening 72 for a halfway total of one under par at Royal County Down.

Health issues have seen 2016 PGA Championship winner drift from golf’s top tier