Overview
- Patrick Reed shot a bogey-free 66 to reach nine under and hold a one-shot halfway lead at the Dubai Desert Classic over Andy Sullivan, with Francesco Molinari and Andrea Pavan two back.
- Reed said he is prepared to absorb more than $1 million in potential 2026 DP World Tour fines by earning on the circuit, noting a victory this week would largely offset the cost.
- Rory McIlroy sits seven shots behind at two under after a second-round 69, defending champion Tyrrell Hatton is four back at five under after a chip‑in eagle, and Dustin Johnson missed the cut.
- McIlroy this week urged Jon Rahm and Hatton to pay their outstanding fines to protect Team Europe, while Rahm reiterated he will not pay and continues to appeal; Hatton says his case remains with legal teams.
- Reports note that non‑payment after failed appeals could cost DP World Tour membership and Ryder Cup eligibility, with fines no longer covered by LIV starting this year.