Aaron Rai Secures Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Play-Off Showdown Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a dramatic play-off following a rollercoaster last day of play.
The Englishman nailed a crucial birdie from around eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his only previous Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff victory over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Excitement
The champion started the final round with a one-shot lead over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger edged a stroke clear with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the last green.
Playoff Climax
That led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the championship and $1.5 million (£1.13m) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even more individual. To compete alongside him the last two days was truly memorable,” said the winner, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on your game and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to put into words at the moment how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Contenders
The Northern Irish star left himself a bit too far to do, finishing a stroke short in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a spectacular 62 final round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever score on the European Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard fired six birdie putts of his own, but his chances of leading the standings were hit by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an excellent last round seven-under to end up tied for fifth with Australian Daniel Hillier.
