The English golfer Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed remarkable composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff following a rollercoaster final round of competition.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie from just over eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his only previous Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a playoff win over Fleetwood.
Final Round Drama
Rai entered the final round with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 closing round that included seven birdies and two bogeys.
The challenger moved one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but Rai tied it up again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last green.
Play-Off Decider
This led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where Rai prevailed to take the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class golfer and an even better person. To play with him the last two days was truly memorable,” said Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on your game and maintaining focus, it’s hard to describe at the present how it feels. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Contenders
Rory McIlroy left himself a bit too far to make up, finishing one shot short in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a stunning 10-under final round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle.
Højgaard fired six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a bogey on the 12th. England’s Mansell hit an excellent last round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australia’s Daniel Hillier.
