Published Sunday, 06 November 2011
McIlroy carded a final round 69 with five birdies and two bogeys to finish on 15-under for the tournament, five shots behind winner Martin Kaymer.
The US Open champion clinched his place in the rankings with a birdie on the final hole - anything less would have seen him remain in third behind England's Lee Westwood.
Graeme McDowell finished third in Shanghai after a superb final round which saw him grab five birdies on his way to a 67, leaving him on 16-under.
Elsewhere Darren Clarke also shot a final round 67 to finish on three under, while Michael Hoey's 72 left him on four over par for the tournament.