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World number one Rory McIlroy says he would love to finish on top of the European money list for the first time.

US PGA winner McIlroy is already assured of topping the standings on the United States Tour after four wins.

"The big goal is just to keep my level up and try to win the Race to Dubai," McIlroy said, ahead of his first match against Matt Kuchar in the inaugural World Golf Final in Turkey on Tuesday.

"If I can win it this time it would be a great way to cap off a great season."

The 23-year-old has never won the European 'Race to Dubai' standings, finishing runner-up in 2009 and 2011.

However, he is currently £346,000 ahead of Ryder Cup team-mate Justin Rose.

South Africa's Branden Grace leapt from 12th to third in the European list with his fifth victory of the season in the Dunhill Links Championship on Sunday.

Although he is a further £276,000 back, there remains enough money on offer for him to complete an unbelievable campaign.

"First is definitely in my sights," Grace said. "The gap is not a lot - maybe one more win or a couple of good finishes."

McIlroy added: "I watched some of the golf on Sunday and he was very impressive down the stretch, especially after the wobble he had around the turn.

"We have some big-money events left so there's a lot that can happen."

Big money is up for grabs in the new eight-man event in Turkey, but none of the £3.2m prize fund will count to the money list as the event is not sanctioned by the European or PGA Tour.

Former Masters champion Charl Schwartzel and 2012 Players Championship winner Matt Kuchar join McIlroy and Tiger Woods in Group One, with Lee Westwood, Justin Rose, Hunter Mahan and US Open champion Webb Simpson in Group Two.

McIlroy and Woods will not face each other until the final game on Wednesday, by which time they could already be through to the semi-finals if they win their opening two games.