“On the tee from England, Andy Sullivan.” With that final announcement, Ivor Robson retired after 41 years of service to the game.

It was an emotional day on the first tee for players, officials and fans, as they heard that golden voice for the last time. There was a little quiver in the Scotsman’s throat, and he wiped some tears from his eyes, as he flagged off the final group of the DP World Tour Championship.

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Later, Robson was honoured by the European Tour, with chief executive Keith Pelley presenting him with a silver salver, and several players, including Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Scott Hend, David Howell and Rafael Cabrera-Bello gave him with a painting from the players.

Rory McIlroy, after shaking hands with European Tour officials, took off his cap and spent a couple of minutes speaking to the 74-year-old with his hand on Robson’s shoulder.

Several players, including Ian Poulter and Pablo Larrazabal took selfies and posted on their Twitter feed. The European Tour paid tribute by releasing a video of a compilation of some of the leading pros, including McIlroy and Justin Rose, impersonating Robson.

England’s Richard Bland tweet summed it up for the players: ‘Walking on to the 1st tee will never feel the same again.. Not having Ivor Robson there to meet you. Enjoy your retirement #legend.’

Stenson on his struggles 
Trust Henrik Stenson to have a funny comment whatever the situation. 

It’s fair to say the Swede did not enjoy the best DP World Tour Championship, finishing rank last in the 60-man field at three-over par 291.

After being 56-under par for his last three visits to the Earth course, which won him the tournament twice in the previous two years, it was puzzling to see him struggle the way he did. 

The man who hit a phenomenal 67 out of 72 greens in regulation during his 2013 win, found the putting surface in regulation 53 times this year. But his overall game just wasn’t sharp, and he kept making mistakes which he blamed on tiredness consequently leading to a lack of motivation.

“I think it was down to fatigue – physically and mentally. I just wasn’t there. And once you find yourself so far behind after the first couple of days, you lose a bit of motivation,” said Stenson.

“I know it sounds strange, but for once in my career, I was wishing this tournament had a cut!”