The win in Dubai helped McIlroy move into the world's top 20

Rory McIlroy has become the first winner of The Race to Dubai European Tour Golfer of the Month award.

The 19-year-old was the unanimous choice of the panel after grabbing a one-stroke victory at the Dubai Desert Classic, his first Tour success.

McIlroy is currently second behind Sergio Garcia on the money list.

The Northern Irishman will hope to be in contention to win the inaugural Race to Dubai at the World Championship event in the Emirates state this year.

"It was a huge thrill to win my first European Tour title against such a high quality field and in the place where The Race to Dubai will be decided in 10 months' time," said McIlroy.

"Obviously, I'd love to be back at the end of the season competing for the Dubai World Championship and the number one spot.

"The win has given me a lot of confidence and I'll be looking to use that to continue to improve for the rest of the year."

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