Golf

Justin Rose targeting world number two spot as ‘Final Series’ begins

Shane Lowry, Graeme McDowell and Michael Hoey also in action at the BMW Masters in Shanghai

Justin Rose in action during the Pro Am prior to the start of the BMW Masters at Lake Malaren Golf Club in Shanghai, China. Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty

Thu Oct 30 2014 - 01:00

Justin Rose wants to end the year as the world number two and is targeting the European Tour's 'Final Series' to climb the rankings, starting with the BMW Masters in Shanghai today.

The 34-year-old joins six of his victorious Ryder Cup team mates in China for the first of the four-tournament series that ends the European season.

World number six Rose is due to play in three of the events and is looking to take advantage of the absence of top-ranked Rory McIlroy and world number five Henrik Stenson with a good performance at Lake Malaren.

“The aim is to strengthen my ranking as much as possible,” said Rose. “If I was to play well and win a few tournaments before the end of the season I could get myself to second in the world rankings which would be a personal best,” he said.

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McIlroy goes into the Final Series with an almost unassailable lead at the top of the European money list.

The Northern Irishman, is taking time out to focus on his legal battles with his former management company while Stenson is taking paternity leave this week following the birth of his daughter.

Rose, who has won on the European and PGA tours this year, warmed up for the BMW Masters with a match-play exhibition victory over close friend and Ryder Cup team-mate Ian Poulter.

World rankings

“I’ve got a decent record here. I’ve played well on this golf course in the past so I’m looking forward to getting going,” said Poulter. “I like the layout, I like the way it looks and if the weather holds off for us and is kind, it’s going to be a great week.”

Irish duo Shane Lowry and Graeme McDowell sit in 13th and 14th position in The Race to Dubai standings and both are in action in China this week.

Currently 54th in the world rankings, Lowry will be looking to climb into the top 50 before the end of the year and earn a first invite to the Masters at Augusta.

Michael Hoey, at 47th in the Race to Dubai rankings, also tees it up, while Europe Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley has received a sponsor's invite.

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