Aaron Rai Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Playoff Showdown Against Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated exceptional composure to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on Sunday, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff after a topsy-turvy final round of competition.
Rai sank a crucial birdie from around eight foot to clinch the win, repeating his only previous Rolex Series success at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a playoff win against the same opponent.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion entered the final round with a one-shot advantage over countryman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood moved a stroke clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie putt to win outright on the last hole.
Play-Off Decider
That led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal golfer and an even more individual. To play with him the last two days was truly memorable,” said the winner, the current 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so concentrated on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to put into words at the moment how it is. It is amazing to be stood here.”
Other Contenders
Rory McIlroy left himself a bit too far to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a shared third place with the Dane, after a spectacular 10-under closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his chances of leading the standings were dented by a bogey on the 12th. England’s Richard Mansell hit an superb final-round 63 to end up tied for fifth with Australia’s Hillier.
