Aaron Rai Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated exceptional nerve to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, beating his compatriot in a tense play-off following a topsy-turvy final round of play.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie putt from just over eight foot to seal the win, echoing his only previous Rolex Series triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a play-off victory over the same opponent.
Final Round Drama
The champion entered the final round with a single stroke advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He finished with a total score of twenty-under after a topsy-turvy, five-under final round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger moved one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a ten-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the final hole.
Playoff Decider
That set up a play-off at Yas Links where Rai triumphed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13m) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal golfer and an even better individual. To play with him the last two days was truly memorable,” said Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to put into words at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be stood here.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself a bit too far to do, finishing a stroke behind in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 10-under final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever round on the European Tour, including eight birdies and an eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his chances of topping the standings were hit by a dropped shot on the twelfth. England’s Richard Mansell produced an superb last round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australia’s Hillier.
