As the European Tour season reaches its climax, the focus shifts to Abu Dhabi, where the HSBC Golf Championship at Yas Links launches the DP World Race to Dubai play-offs. For many, it’s a week of pressure and promise. For Marco Penge, it’s the chance to complete a fairytale year.
The 27-year-old Englishman arrives ranked second in the standings, buoyed by three victories in 2025, including a statement win in Madrid that catapulted him into the world’s top 30. His transformation from a player fighting for his tour card just a year ago to a title contender has been nothing short of extraordinary.
I needed a birdie on the last hole in Korea last year just to keep my card. That day was probably the most nervous I’ve ever been.
Now, he rates his campaign a “nine out of ten” – the only missing piece, he says with a smile, was a Ryder Cup call-up.
Winning three times this year has been massive. It probably would’ve been a 10 if I’d got picked for Bethpage. But I’m happy with how things have gone. I always believed I had the ability to be here, and it’s great to see that belief paying off.
Mind Over Mechanics
Penge credits his resurgence to a mental reset rather than a technical overhaul. A stronger focus on process over outcome has helped him stay grounded and consistent.
I’ve learned to accept failure. I’ve got real belief in what I’m doing. If I don’t play well one week, it’s not the end of the world. My job is just to keep improving each day – that’s all I can control.
Despite the success, he insists there’s been little time for celebration. “There’s a time and place for that – probably Christmas,” he said with a grin. “I’ve just kept my foot down and reset goals every week. The main aim was not to get complacent.”
Dream Pairing With Mcilroy
At Yas Links, Penge will tee off alongside Rory McIlroy and Tyrrell Hatton, ranked first and third respectively, for the opening rounds – a pairing he describes as “surreal.”
I’m buzzing. It’s going to be fun to play with Rory for the first time. He was an idol of mine growing up, so to go head-to-head with him now is special. Hopefully I can hold my own.
Penge believes the links-style course suits his aggressive play. “Driving the ball straight is key,” he said. “With my distance, if I can keep it in play, there’ll be plenty of chances. The greens are big, so it’ll come down to who holes the most putts. I think it suits the long hitters if they play well.”
Waring Ruled Out, Praises Yas Links
Defending champion Paul Waring will miss the event due to a shoulder injury, a blow he admits has been difficult to accept.
I’m almost devastated that I’m not going to be defending the title. It’s just one of those things – a small tear that needs rest and rehab. Hopefully I’ll be back by the end of the year.
Still, Waring remains full of admiration for the venue. “Yas Links is one of my favourite courses in the world,” he said. “It’s firm, fast, and beautifully conditioned – a true taste of links golf in the UAE.”
A Season To Remember, And More To Come
Beyond the scorecards, Penge has grown into his role as a fan favourite. “Last week, loads of kids came up wanting to chat,” he said. “That really hit home for me – that I’m starting to become a name. That’s what it’s about for me, being a role model for the next generation.”
Now ranked 29th in the world, Penge is hungry for more. “Not many points drop off next year,” he noted. “If I can match this season, it’ll be interesting to see how high I can get. I just want to keep getting better – that’ll take care of everything else.”
As the play-offs begin amid the shimmering fairways and mangroves of Yas Island, Penge stands poised for another defining chapter. From clinging to his card in Korea to chasing glory in Abu Dhabi, his story captures the essence of the Race to Dubai – persistence, belief, and the promise of greatness.
