The English golfer Clinches the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Playoff Showdown Versus Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed exceptional composure to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, beating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off following a topsy-turvy final round of competition.
The Englishman sank a crucial birdie from just over eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his only previous Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off victory over Fleetwood.
Final Round Drama
Rai started the final round with a one-shot advantage over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger edged one shot clear with the 16th and 17th to play after a birdie on the 16th, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a ten-foot birdie putt to win outright on the last hole.
Play-Off Climax
This led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where Rai triumphed to claim the championship and $1.5 million (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more person. To compete alongside him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” stated the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on your game and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to describe at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to make up, coming up one shot short in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 final round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his chances of leading the standings were hit by a bogey on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell hit an excellent final-round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australian Hillier.