The English golfer Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Play-Off Battle Versus Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional nerve to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense play-off following a rollercoaster final round of competition.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie putt from just over eight feet to seal the win, echoing his only previous tournament success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off win over the same opponent.
Sunday's Play Excitement
Rai started the last day with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that included seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger moved a stroke ahead with two holes to play after a birdie on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the last hole.
Play-Off Decider
This set up a playoff at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To play with him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” said Rai, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to describe at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself a bit too far to do, finishing a stroke behind in a shared third place with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, including eight birdie putts and an eagle.
The Danish golfer fired six birdies of his as well, but his chances of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Richard Mansell hit an excellent final-round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australian Hillier.
