RORY MCILROY IS tonight ranked as the best golfer on the planet.

The 22-year-old won the Honda Classic in Florida, ending Luke Donald’s time at the top of the rankings list.

The Holywood native is the second youngest player ever to reach the pinnacle of the game – Tiger Woods retains that title.

Tonight, Woods had a front row seat for McIlroy’s latest achievement as the American almost pulled off one of his most remarkable wins. Right when it looked as though McIlroy had no serious challenge, Woods put some color into that red shirt with a birdie-eagle finish to shoot 62 and get within one shot of the lead.

McIlroy answered with a birdie, and then made three clutch par saves during a daunting stretch at PGA National. He closed with a 1-under 69 for the victory he needed to move to No. 1 in the world.

Woods had his lowest final round ever and finished two behind, along with Tom Gillis (69). It was McIlroy’s third PGA Tour victory.

- additional reporting AP

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