Overview
- Starting on the back nine at Dubai Creek Resort, McIlroy made six birdies in his first nine to turn in 31 and finish at five under.
- The world No. 2 replaced his RORS Proto blades with TaylorMade P7CB cavity-backs in the 5–9 irons, seeking greater forgiveness and steadier distance control.
- TaylorMade said the move targeted improved performance on mishits, with McIlroy also putting a new ball in play after promising practice results.
- On-course leader Matt Wallace briefly reached seven under after six birdies and an eagle before a bogey at the 12th cut his margin.
- Play paused at 10:30 local time to honor junior golfer Emanuele Galeppini and 39 victims of the Crans Montana fire.