Aaron Rai Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Showdown Versus Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated exceptional composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff following a rollercoaster final round of play.
The Englishman sank a crucial birdie putt from just over eight foot to seal the win, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a playoff victory over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion entered the last day with a one-shot advantage over countryman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He finished with a total score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 closing round that featured seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood moved one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last green.
Playoff Decider
This set up a playoff at the Yas Links course where Rai prevailed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class golfer and an even better person. To play with him the final two rounds was really special,” stated the winner, the present 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so concentrated on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s hard to describe at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Contenders
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to do, finishing one shot behind in a shared third place with the Dane, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever score on the European Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.
The Danish golfer fired six birdies of his own, but his chances of leading the leaderboard were dented by a bogey on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell produced an superb last round 63 to end up tied for fifth with Australian Hillier.
