Underdog Ferguson Leads Dubai Desert Classic as Stars Struggle

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Ewen Ferguson, a relatively unknown Scottish golfer ranked No. 141, surged to the top of the leaderboard at the Dubai Desert Classic on Friday, defying expectations as some of the sport’s biggest names faltered. Ferguson shot a 7-under 65 in the second round, taking a one-stroke lead over New Zealand‘s Daniel Hillier, who also carded a 65.

Ferguson’s rise was aided by a stroke of luck at the par-5 18th hole, where his overhit second shot ricocheted off an advertising board and landed just 5 feet from the pin. He sank the eagle putt to finish at 12 under for the tournament. Hillier, ranked No. 223, trailed closely at 11 under, while Tyrrell Hatton and two others were tied for third at 8 under.

Meanwhile, marquee players Jon Rahm and Viktor Hovland failed to make the cut. Rahm, a two-time major champion now competing on the LIV Golf circuit, struggled with a second-round 77, dropping to 3 over for the tournament. “No part of the game today was even average to what I would like to feel,” Rahm admitted. Hovland, ranked No. 8, also exited early after a 73 left him at 4 over.

Rory McIlroy, the defending champion seeking a third consecutive title, barely survived the cut. A birdie on the 18th hole secured his place for the weekend, but he remained nine strokes behind Ferguson at 3 under. McIlroy acknowledged his frustration with his putting, having made only 39 feet of putts in his second round. “A little frustrated,” he said, “but I thought the conditions were a little tricky.”

Despite his struggles, McIlroy remained optimistic, recalling his comeback from a 10-stroke deficit at the same stage last year. “If I can focus on hitting fairways and greens, and get a couple of putts to drop, I think I’ve still got a decent chance,” he said.

Ferguson, a three-time European Tour winner, credited his strong performance to consistent play and a bit of fortune. “I’m just trying to stay in the moment and enjoy it,” he said. The challenging conditions at Emirates Golf Club, including thick rough and firm greens, tested the field, but Ferguson navigated them with precision.

Rahm, despite his early exit, praised the tournament setup and expressed his intention to return. “I absolutely love the golf course and the setup,” he said. “If the schedule allows, I would like to be here next year and hopefully get some redemption.”

As the tournament heads into the weekend, all eyes will be on Ferguson to see if he can maintain his lead against a chasing pack that includes McIlroy and Hatton. The Dubai Desert Classic continues to deliver drama, with unexpected twists and turns keeping fans on the edge of their seats.