The English golfer Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Playoff Showdown Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated remarkable nerve to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating his compatriot in a tense play-off after a rollercoaster last day of competition.
Rai sank a decisive birdie putt from just over eight foot to seal the victory, echoing his sole prior tournament success at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was also a play-off win over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion entered the final round with a one-shot lead over countryman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under final round that featured seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger moved one shot ahead with two holes to play after a birdie putt on the sixteenth, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie putt to win outright on the final green.
Playoff Decider
This led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To compete alongside him the final two rounds was really special,” said the winner, the current 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so focused on your game and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to put into words at the present how it is. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Performances
Rory McIlroy left himself a bit too far to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 final round of ten-under. It was his lowest-ever round on the DP World Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdie putts of his own, but his chances of topping the standings were hit by a dropped shot on the 12th. England’s Richard Mansell produced an superb final-round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australia’s Daniel Hillier.
