Aaron Rai Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Showdown Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional composure to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a tense playoff following a topsy-turvy final round of play.
The Englishman nailed a crucial birdie from just over eight feet to seal the victory, repeating his only previous Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a playoff win against Fleetwood.
Final Round Drama
The champion entered the last day with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 final round that featured seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
Fleetwood moved one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but Rai tied it up again on the seventeenth and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the final hole.
Playoff Decider
This led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (£1.13m) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal golfer and an even more individual. To compete alongside him the last two days was really special,” said Rai, the present 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so focused on your game and maintaining focus, it’s hard to describe at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be stood here.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s best-ever score on the European Tour, comprising eight birdies and one eagle.
The Danish golfer fired six birdies of his as well, but his chances of leading the leaderboard were hit by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell produced an superb final-round seven-under to finish tied for fifth with Australia’s Hillier.
