Daniel Hillier leads the Dubai Desert Classic with Rory McIlroy 7 shots back

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — New Zealand’s Daniel Hillier birdied the final two holes to shoot a 2-under 70 on Saturday and take a one-stroke lead into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic.

Tyrrell Hatton shot 68 and was the closest challenge to the 223rd-ranked Hillier, whose only win on the European Tour came at the British Masters in July 2023.

Hillier was 13-under in a week.

Rory McIlroy, seeking a third straight title at the prestigious tournament, shot seven shots from the 12th after a round of 69.