Li Haotong took home more than the Dubai Desert Classic championship trophy after four days of nail-biting golf at the Major of the Middle East.

A single stroke was enough to secure the title for the Chinese star, beating off stiff competition from Rory Mcillroy.

Haotong managed to birdie five of the last seven holes for a 69 and a tournament-record 23 under par.

Following his victory at the Dubai Desert Classic, which was held at the Majlis course at the Emirates Golf Club, Haotong  became the first Chinese golfer to break into the world’s top 50. He’s now targeting a debut at The Masters in Augusta.

The victory earned the 22-year-old a trophy, winner’s cheque and an OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Master Chronometer watch.

OMEGA President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann said: “I’m proud to sincerely congratulate Li Haotong on his win and for treating us all to such world class golf. It’s been a thrill from the first day to the last. OMEGA feels very honoured to be part of this fantastic event, which is a real highlight of the golfing year. This has been the perfect start to 2018 and I wish all the players a fantastic season ahead.”

The OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic has been a part of the European Tour since its inception in 1989. This is the ninth year that OMEGA has been the title sponsor.