Rory McIlroy appeared to take a dim view of Jon Rahm's comments about the current state of men's professional golf. Rahm told reporters before the Hero Dubai Desert Classic he believed we are living in 'a golden era' with endless possibilities.

Rory McIlroy’s twin wins at the Emirates Golf Club in the past two years could scarcely have evoked more contrasting responses. When he defended his Hero Dubai Desert Classic title last year, he was a picture of contentment.