Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship: Fantasy DP World Tour ones to watch

The season enters its decisive stage as the top players of the Race to Dubai campaign gather for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the first event of the DP World Tour Play-Offs. The top 70 competitors face off this week at Yas Links, with only the top 50 advancing to the DP World Tour Championship, where Europe’s Number One will be crowned.

Key Storylines

Rory McIlroy currently leads the rankings as he seeks his seventh Harry Vardon Trophy and an unprecedented fourth consecutive title. However, three-time 2025 winner Marco Penge and several other stars remain within striking distance, keeping the competition wide open.

Fantasy Insights

The Rolex Series returns to the UAE, heightening excitement for fantasy managers. Ahead of Thursday’s deadline, player selections reveal intriguing trends among fantasy participants.

Ludvig Åberg and Tyrrell Hatton are the most selected, appearing in 61% of all teams.
Alex Noren, a Rolex Series champion at Wentworth earlier this season, and Matt Fitzpatrick are close behind with 57% selection each.
Robert MacIntyre, one of eight European Ryder Cup players competing this week, rounds out the top five with choices in 55% of fantasy teams.

“The Rolex Series returns in the UAE and it is still all to play for.”

Player Focus

Performance consistency, course familiarity, and current form make this week’s picks crucial as the season nears its conclusion. The mix of major champions and emerging talents promises a thrilling contest in Abu Dhabi.

Author’s Summary: Key contenders and fantasy favorites converge at Yas Links in a high-stakes opening to the DP World Tour Play-Offs as McIlroy chases another historic title.

DP World Tour — 2025-11-04