McIlroy Eyes Race to Dubai Gains After Reed's Injury Exit

Rory McIlroy has a chance to cut into Patrick Reed's lead in the Race to Dubai standings this weekend at the BMW PGA Championship after Reed withdrew from Friday's second round with a wrist injury sustained on the ninth hole.

What does Reed's withdrawal mean for the standings?

Reed, who leads the Race to Dubai season-long points list, was already struggling at nine over through nine holes before he pulled out at Wentworth. McIlroy followed his opening 69 with a second-round 67 to reach 8 under, four shots off the lead entering the weekend. A top-two finish would allow McIlroy to move past Reed atop the standings.

This weekend is a big weekend for me to pick up a few points.

What is McIlroy chasing this season?

A strong finish would put McIlroy within reach of an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie him with Colin Montgomerie's record of eight European Tour Order of Merit titles. McIlroy said he respected how Reed, a longtime rival dating back to Ryder Cup and major championship battles, had competed on the European swing this year.

McIlroy also pointed to recent swing changes he has been working through for several months, saying he has seen encouraging signs of progress in competition even as the process continues.