Aaron Rai Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Playoff Showdown Versus Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable nerve to claim the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off after a rollercoaster final round of play.
The Englishman sank a crucial birdie from just over eight foot to seal the win, repeating his only previous Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a playoff win against Fleetwood.
Final Round Excitement
The champion entered the final round with a one-shot lead over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 final round that included seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
The challenger moved a stroke clear with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the seventeenth and then missed a 10-foot birdie putt to win outright on the last hole.
Playoff Climax
That set up a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner triumphed to claim the championship and $1.5m (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class golfer and an even more person. To play with him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” stated the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on your game and maintaining focus, it’s hard to put into words at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Performances
The Northern Irish star left himself just too much to do, finishing one shot short in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a bogey on the 12th. English golfer Mansell produced an excellent last round seven-under to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australia’s Hillier.