The English golfer Secures Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Play-Off Battle Versus Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a tense play-off following a topsy-turvy last day of competition.
Rai sank a crucial birdie from just over eight foot to seal the win, repeating his only previous Rolex Series triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff victory over Fleetwood.
Final Round Drama
Rai entered the last day with a one-shot advantage over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He finished with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under final round that featured seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger edged a stroke ahead with the 16th and 17th to play after a birdie on the 16th, but Rai tied it up again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last hole.
Play-Off Climax
This led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner triumphed to claim the title and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To compete alongside him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” stated Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on your game and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to put into words at the present how it feels. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Contenders
The Northern Irish star left himself just too much to do, coming up one shot short in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 closing round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s best-ever score on the European Tour, including eight birdies and one eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his own, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an superb final-round seven-under to end up tied for fifth with Australia’s Hillier.
