The English golfer Secures Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Battle Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed remarkable composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off after a rollercoaster last day of play.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie from just over eight foot to seal the win, repeating his sole prior tournament triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a playoff win over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion started the last day with a single stroke lead over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that featured seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last green.
Playoff Decider
This set up a play-off at Yas Links where Rai prevailed to claim the championship and $1.5m (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even more individual. To compete alongside him the last two days was truly memorable,” stated Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on your game and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to describe at the moment how it feels. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Other Performances
The Northern Irish star left himself just too much to do, coming up a stroke short in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 final round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s best-ever score on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were hit by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Richard Mansell hit an superb last round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australia’s Hillier.
