Rory McIlroy is approaching the latter part of 2025 with remarkable achievements and fresh challenges. Notably, he secured the green jacket, completed a career Grand Slam, and triumphed at the Irish Open. Recently, he also contributed to the European Ryder Cup team’s success at Bethpage Black. This week, McIlroy is in New Delhi, India, where he is facing a distinctive golfing challenge at the Lodhi course, renowned for its demands.
Rory McIlroy’s New Challenge in India
This week marks McIlroy’s first visit to India, a country with a population of approximately 1.45 billion. He is participating in the DP World India Championship at the Lodhi course, located near the iconic Taj Mahal. This course presents a unique test for players, in stark contrast to the larger, more open courses many competitors frequently play.
The Lodhi Course: A Unique Layout
- Length: 6,912 yards, short by modern standards
- Fairway width: An average of 25 yards
- Narrowest point: The 16th fairway’s choke point measures only 14 yards wide
The fairways are tightly flanked by native trees and bushes, creating an intimidating environment. Indian golfer Shubhankar Sharma, who has experienced success on the Asia Tour, noted, “The intimidation factor” is significant. Sharma, along with fellow Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri, brings local insights, having both played on the Lodhi course for years. Lahiri recalled his initial struggles, stating, “Terrible” described his early performances at this challenging layout.
Strategies Emphasized by Competitors
Unlike typical tournaments, where long drives dominate strategy, players at Lodhi are advised to exercise caution. Lahiri has shared critical insights about adapting strategies, which have also reached McIlroy. He joked about refraining from using his driver, prioritizing safety over distance. “Now I’d rather hit 7-iron into a par-4 instead of risking a wedge that could lead to trouble,” he explained.
- McIlroy’s preferred practice this week: moderate distances over aggressive driving.
- Use of irons: Many players plan to employ longer clubs played from tee, like 3-iron or 3-wood.
Victorious at the Ryder Cup, Viktor Hovland and Brian Harman echoed similar sentiments. Hovland noted that due to his sore neck, laying off the driver is ideal for him. Harman emphasized the importance of strategic decision-making, likening the course to a links-style challenge despite its inland location.
Ben Griffin expressed his enjoyment of the varied club selection this course demands. “I like courses like this a lot more,” he stated, contrasting it with the conventional use of drivers and wedges on American courses.
As Rory McIlroy navigates this unique golfing landscape in India, his performance at the Lodhi course showcases not only his adaptability but also the diverse challenges the sport presents at various venues worldwide.
