Starting in 2026, the DP World Tour will present the Rory McIlroy Award to the member with the best Major season.
The DP World Tour has announced a new annual accolade: the Rory McIlroy Award. Named after the Northern Irishman who made history by completing the career Grand Slam in April, the award will honor the tour member who earns the most Race to Dubai points across all four Majors. “To have something that carries my name and will be handed to future generations means a lot,” said McIlroy, who became the first European to achieve the career Grand Slam with his Masters victory.
DP World Tour honors McIlroy’s historic achievement
The Rory McIlroy Award joins a prestigious list of DP World Tour honors, including the Seve Ballesteros Award, the Harry Vardon Trophy, the Sir Henry Cotton Award, and the John Jacobs Trophy. McIlroy’s win at Augusta not only completed his Major set but also came in a dramatic showdown with Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose. This milestone cements his legacy among legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Gary Player.
Award criteria: Consistency across the Majors
While McIlroy himself will be ineligible to win the award named after him, the criteria are clear: the player who performs best across the Masters, PGA Championship, US Open, and Open Championship in a given season will be honored. The focus is on consistent excellence rather than a single standout performance. “The Majors are the pinnacle of our sport,” McIlroy emphasized. DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings added, “Rory’s Grand Slam was a landmark moment. This award is meant to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.”
“To have my name up there along with Harry Vardon and Sir Henry Cotton and Seve Ballesteros and John Jacobs, that’s very special.”
What the Rory McIlroy Award means to the man himself 💬 https://t.co/jSKGXb8eqm pic.twitter.com/qoOOTRyEHL
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) November 11, 2025