Despite winning the money list titles on both sides of the Atlantic, world number one Rory McIlroy insists that he will be at his best at this week's Hong Kong Open.

The Ulsterman has enjoyed a golden year which saw him play a key role in Europe's dramatic Ryder Cup victory, as well as triumphing at the US PGA Championship and becoming the world's top-ranked player.

"Back in 2005, I first came here as a junior in the Faldo Series. We stayed at the golf club and I really enjoyed the course," the defending Hong Kong Open champion said on Wednesday.

"Then when I came back here as a European Tour player, I stayed in Hong Kong city and really enjoyed the buzz and the atmosphere.

"But it's here at the golf course that I have had some great experiences as a player, taking part in one of the best ever playoffs against Lin Wen-tang in 2008 and then finally putting my name on the trophy last year," he continued.

"I wasn't feeling well on the Saturday and went into the final round three behind but shot a 65, holing a bunker shot at the last, to win by two."

The 23-year-old admitted that his love for the Fanling course was one of the main reasons he returned to the co-sanctioned Asian and European Tour event where he will attempt to claim his fifth victory of the season.

"It is really old school," he added.

"I love the trees that frame most of the holes. You can really see your shots. There is a lot of definition. Length here doesn't matter. There won't be too many drivers used around here."

Some European Tour regulars will use this weekend's event to secure their places in the top 60 on the Race to Dubai money list, which ensures qualification for next week's season-ending World Tour Championship.

David Howell (61st) and Paul Casey (74th) have travelled to Hong Kong sitting outside the cut-off point in search of qualification for the lucrative event.

Sunday's final leaderboard could also influence the top 119 players on the money list, who will be guaranteed of their Tour cards for 2013.

Golf 365