Rory McIlroy left 'horrified' by golf star gaining weight after drinking too much alcohol

Despite expectations of an awkward atmosphere between the European teammates following McIlroy's recent comments that LIV golfers should settle their fines to prove commitment to future Ryder Cups, the pair appeared relaxed during the opening round of the Dubai Desert Classic.

Hatton carded a two under par 70, finishing three shots ahead of his playing partner McIlroy in challenging windy conditions.

Rather than addressing the contentious fines issue, conversation between the two golfers centred on their mutual appreciation for wine during the festive period.

"We didn't really talk about the fines business. It was me mainly asking if he had any good wine over Christmas to be honest," Hatton explained.

He conceded that McIlroy's Christmas selection had outshone his own, though he maintained his wine was "very nice, too."

The Englishman made no attempt to hide his indulgent December, admitting he had completed "zero cardio and a lot of drinking" while doing minimal training.

His festive preparations even extended to installing a Guinness tap at his home, which he described as "enjoyable."

With 2026 underway, Hatton acknowledged it was time to shed the excess weight.

Having completed Dry January last year, Hatton admitted he had missed the opportunity to repeat the alcohol-free month and was instead attempting what he called "Damp January."

The physical toll of his festive excess was evident during his round, with Hatton comparing his movement on the course to an ocean liner.

"I could feel the difference in my weight out there today. I was turning like the Titanic. I still feel pretty stiff," he said.

His backswing had also suffered, with the golfer noting it felt "even shorter than Jon's" at the start of his round, referring to playing partner Jon Rahm.

"He's a bit stronger than me, so he can generate a bit more clubhead speed," Hatton acknowledged, adding that he felt "rusty" but pleased to finish under par.

Hatton's initial response to McIlroy's public remarks about LIV fines, which could total nearly £1 million annually for golfers competing in events clashing with DP World Tour dates, was one of shock.

However, he insisted the comments had not created any animosity between the pair.

"I didn't think we needed to talk about that. We're out there to focus on trying to play good golf," Hatton said.

"I ended up seeing exactly what was said. And as he said, that's his opinion. Everyone's allowed an opinion."

He expressed hope that a resolution would be reached soon, suggesting all parties were eager for the situation to be settled.

Francesco Molinari claimed the surprise first-round lead after posting an impressive seven under par 65, with the 2018 Open champion having struggled for form in recent years.