Rory McIlroy fights back tears after revealing father's health issue following historic Race to Dubai win

Rory McIlroy dedicated his record-equalling eighth Race to Dubai title to his father Gerry after revealing he has been recovering from a health issue in the United States over the past two months.

The Northern Irishman became visibly emotional following his historic achievement at the DP World Tour Championship, having matched Colin Montgomerie's longstanding record of eight European Tour Order of Merit titles.

McIlroy secured his fifth consecutive Race to Dubai crown after finishing solo second behind Tyrrell Hatton at Jumeirah Golf Estates, closing with a bogey-free 67 to finish five shots adrift of the Englishman.

However, the 37-year-old's latest milestone carried a deeper personal significance after revealing the difficult circumstances his family had faced away from the golf course.

Asked by Sky Sports' Tim Barter how much his father had been in his thoughts during the final round, McIlroy struggled to hold back the tears.

"A lot," McIlroy said.

"He's been in hospital the last two months. He underwent a huge operation at the end of September, and he is recovering well thankfully.

"When I left to come to the Middle East, I went up to Cleveland to see him, and he said to me go win the Race to Dubai.

"This one is for him."

The emotional moment followed another landmark achievement in McIlroy's remarkable career, with the grand slam champion now sitting alongside Montgomerie at the top of the DP World Tour's all-time Order of Merit honours list.

McIlroy admitted the record was never something he had specifically targeted growing up, but expressed immense pride in matching the achievements of the European golfing legend.

"Winning eight Order of Merits was never really in my list of goals when I was growing up," McIlroy said.

"I remember Monty being a stalwart of the European Tour and going to watch him at the World Match Play over the years.

"I am a very proud European, a very proud European player, proud to be a part of the DP World Tour and I am very proud of myself right now."

During his victory speech on the 18th green, McIlroy was asked by presenter Iona Stephen how many Race to Dubai titles he believes are now possible. 

"Let's try for double digits," said McIlroy, who was greeted by cheers from the spectators. 

The achievement capped another exceptional season for McIlroy, who successfully defended his Masters title in April to become only the fourth player in history to retain the Green Jacket at Augusta National.

Despite recording just one title during the campaign, his consistency proved decisive in the Race to Dubai standings.

McIlroy ultimately finished ahead of Eugenio Chacarra, who had led the season-long rankings entering the tournament. The Spaniard closed with a 69 to finish tied third on eight-under-par.

While Hatton claimed the DP World Tour Championship title with a commanding 15-under-par total, McIlroy's historic achievement and heartfelt tribute to his father ensured the season finale was an especially memorable occasion for the Northern Irishman.

With his father recovering and another record secured, McIlroy's latest Race to Dubai triumph will undoubtedly rank among the most meaningful of his career.