Six reasons the 2024 DP World Tour season might have been the best one ever

Golf presenter and TG columnist Iona Stephen reflects on some magical moments from what she calls "the most emotional year ever on the DP World Tour".

Golf presenter and TG columnist Iona Stephen reflects on some magical moments from what she calls “the most emotional year ever on the DP World Tour”.

The 2024 DP World Tour season will be remembered as one of the most remarkable in recent history, not just for the exceptional level of play but for the deeply personal, inspiring stories that defined its winners. In a year filled with hometown heroes, underdog triumphs and emotional victories, the Wentworth-based circuit has reminded us of golf’s power to inspire, bringing fans closer to the players than ever before.

1. Daring Waring ends a long wait

Let’s start with one of the season’s most recent winners, Paul Waring, who claimed his first Rolex Series title in Abu Dhabi in November. In conditions where I genuinely thought my commentary kit might melt as temperatures hit 37°C, Waring stayed cool and held off world-class competition in the final stretch.

Though he’d won once before – six years ago at the Nordea Masters – this victory marked a new chapter for him, bringing years of grit and persistence to fruition. At 39, Waring lifted his first Rolex title, proving that resilience and belief can overcome setbacks and injuries.

For those who understand the long, winding road of professional golf, this win was a powerful reminder of the rewards that come to those who stay the course.

2. A Man(assero) reborn

Earlier in the year, we witnessed the extraordinary comeback of Matteo Manassero. Once heralded as a golfing prodigy, the Italian burst onto the scene in his teens, breaking records as the youngest winner of the British Amateur and the youngest to make the cut at the Masters. By 20, he had four DP World Tour wins, including the prestigious BMW PGA Championship.

But after these early successes, he faced an unexpected decline. Struggling with his game and losing his card by 2018, he admitted the joy of playing had faded under the pressure to perform. His victory in South Africa this season was about more than reclaiming form; it was a return to the passion and joy he once had for the game. Fans who’ve followed his journey felt this comeback was a fairytale, showing that true greatness often emerges from the courage to rebuild.

3. Bob Mac and rise

One of the most special moments of the year was Robert MacIntyre’s win at the Genesis Scottish Open. Few things are more electrifying than a player winning on home soil, and MacIntyre’s triumph was a story for the ages.

He became the first Scot to win the Genesis Scottish Open in 25 years, a feat previously achieved by Colin Montgomerie in 1999. It was especially sweet given his narrow miss the year before when he lost to Rory McIlroy. For Scottish fans, it was a source of pride, and for MacIntyre (and clan MacIntyre), a realization of a dream he’d held since he first picked up a club. As he said: “I wanted the Scottish Open, and I got the Scottish Open.”

4. Where there’s a Wallace there’s a way

Then there was Matt Wallace, who brought us yet another unforgettable win with his playoff victory at the Omega European Masters, ending a six-year drought.

Wallace had entered the final round with a four-shot lead, only to face mounting pressure as the field closed in. Having lost previously in a playoff on the same course, this was a true redemption story.

His win was impossible not to celebrate, proof of his relentless grit and a reminder of his competitive fire as he prepares to potentially make an impact on the Ryder Cup team next year…

5. Viva Espana

Angel Hidalgo’s victory at the Spanish Open was a story with a hint of magic. Competing on home soil, Hidalgo found himself in a dramatic playoff, battling none other than Jon Rahm in front of an elated Spanish crowd. His win showcased not only his skill and resilience, but also a flair that made it impossible not to think of the great Seve. Hidalgo’s passionate, energetic style was a fitting tribute to the Spanish legend and brought him a deeply personal connection with fans in Spain.

6. Byeong’ing home the bacon

On the opposite side of the world, Byeong Hun An’s win in Korea was equally poignant. With his family and hometown crowd cheering him on, An delivered a powerful victory that held great personal meaning.

His journey to this win, filled with its own highs and lows, brought his career full circle, giving Korean fans a reason to celebrate and reflect on his dedication to the game.

As we reflect on these moments, 2024 really does stand out as a year where the DP World Tour captured a more human side to professional golf. Each of these players brought something unique to their victory, from hometown pride and childhood dreams to sheer resilience in the face of heartbreaking setbacks.

They remind us that golf is more than just a sport; it’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs and deeply personal milestones. This journey is what keeps the game alive, connecting players and fans through unforgettable moments that resonate far beyond the fairways.

About the Author

Iona Stephen – Broadcaster and Today’s Golfer contributor

A former professional golfer, who has played on the Ladies European Tour, Iona is a highly respected golf broadcaster.

She joined Today’s Golfer as a regular contributor in 2023 and offers insight into the professional game from her life working on the world’s biggest tours.

The Scotswoman is as comfortable covering the game from the commentary booth as she is broadcasting in front of the camera and from the course. Alongside her television work, Stephen also has her own YouTube channel – On The Road With Iona.

Follow Iona on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok, and find out more at ionastephen.com