Jon Rahm returns for Dubai Duty Free showpiece at Lahinch

The 24-year-old has been a fan favourite at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, having claimed a record-breaking victory on his debut in 2017 courtesy of a six-stroke triumph with a 24 under par total – the lowest winning score in the event’s 92 year history.

“Winning the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open was very special for me,” said Rahm.

“To perform the way I did and shoot 24 under par and especially the way it happened on that final round, with that magnificent hole-out on four which was arguably one of the best shots of my career, and the finish the way I did . With how much fun I had it was definitely special.

“What made it all better was the Irish crowds, they were some of the best crowds I’ve ever played in front of – for both years, two years in a row.

“I’m very excited to go back there and to Lahinch. I’ve never been on that golf course but I’ve heard a lot of good things about it.

“It’s always one of the most enjoyable weeks I have on tour so hopefully I can have a good showing again. The support I get over there is unlike any other, comparable to what I get in Spain and I love going back.”

Last year, Rahm gave the Irish fans plenty to cheer about over the weekend at Ballyliffin, carding a round of 67 on Saturday and a remarkable 66 on the final day – which included four successive birdies to finish. The Basque player came within two strokes of a play-off spot having started the week with a two over par 74.

That preceded one of the most dramatic finales in the tournament’s 91-year history, as Russell Knox holed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole to clinch a place in a play -off.