The English golfer Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Play-Off Battle Versus Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed exceptional nerve to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off following a rollercoaster final round of play.
Rai sank a decisive birdie putt from around eight foot to seal the victory, echoing his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a play-off win against the same opponent.
Sunday's Play Excitement
Rai started the last day with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He finished with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, 67 final round that featured seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged a stroke clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then failed to convert a ten-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last green.
Playoff Decider
This led to a playoff at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner triumphed to claim the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To play with him the last two days was really special,” stated the winner, the current 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so concentrated on your game and staying in the zone, it’s hard to put into words at the moment how it is. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Performances
The Northern Irish star found himself just too much to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a spectacular 62 final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his chances of leading the standings were hit by a bogey on the 12th. English golfer Mansell produced an superb last round seven-under to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.
