The English golfer Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed remarkable composure to claim the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on Sunday, beating his compatriot in a tense play-off after a topsy-turvy last day of play.
The Englishman nailed a crucial birdie from just over eight foot to seal the win, echoing his sole prior Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off victory over Fleetwood.
Final Round Excitement
The champion entered the final round with a one-shot lead over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He finished with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under final round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger edged one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last green.
Playoff Climax
This set up a play-off at the Yas Links course where Rai prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (ÂŁ1.13m) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more individual. To play with him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” said the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and staying in the zone, it’s hard to describe at the present how it is. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Contenders
The Northern Irish star found himself a bit too far to make up, finishing a stroke behind in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s best-ever round on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his own, but his chances of leading the leaderboard were hit by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell hit an superb final-round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.
