The English golfer Clinches the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional nerve to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense play-off after a rollercoaster last day of play.
Rai nailed a crucial birdie putt from around eight foot to clinch the win, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a playoff win over the same opponent.
Sunday's Play Drama
Rai entered the last day with a single stroke lead over countryman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that featured seven birdies and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot ahead with two holes to play after a birdie on the 16th, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a ten-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last hole.
Play-Off Decider
This led to a play-off at Yas Links where Rai prevailed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more individual. To compete alongside him the final two rounds was really special,” said the winner, the present 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so focused on your game and staying in the zone, it’s hard to put into words at the moment how it is. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Contenders
Rory McIlroy left himself just too much to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, including eight birdie putts and one eagle.
Højgaard fired six birdies of his own, but his hopes of topping the leaderboard were dented by a dropped shot on the twelfth. England’s Mansell produced an excellent last round seven-under to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australia’s Hillier.
