Aaron Rai Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Showdown Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional composure to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense play-off following a topsy-turvy last day of play.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie from around eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff win against Fleetwood.
Final Round Excitement
Rai entered the last day with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 closing round that included seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot clear with two holes to play after a birdie on the sixteenth, but Rai tied it up again on the seventeenth and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the final hole.
Play-Off Decider
This led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner triumphed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more person. To play with him the last two days was really special,” stated the winner, the present world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on your game and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to describe at the present how it feels. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Other Contenders
The Northern Irish star found himself just too much to make up, finishing a stroke short in a shared third place with the Dane, after a stunning 62 final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the European Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an superb last round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Hillier.
