Aaron Rai Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Play-Off Showdown Against Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated exceptional composure to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a tense play-off after a topsy-turvy last day of competition.
The Englishman sank a crucial birdie from just over eight feet to clinch the win, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a play-off win against Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Excitement
The champion started the last day with a single stroke advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under final round that featured seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the sixteenth, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the last green.
Play-Off Decider
This set up a playoff at the Yas Links course where Rai prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (ÂŁ1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal golfer and an even more person. To compete alongside him the last two days was really special,” said the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to describe at the moment how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Contenders
The Northern Irish star found himself a bit too far to make up, finishing one shot short in a shared third place with the Dane, after a spectacular 10-under final round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever round on the DP World Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard fired six birdies of his own, but his chances of leading the standings were hit by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Richard Mansell produced an excellent final-round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.
