Aaron Rai Clinches the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Play-Off Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood
Aaron Rai demonstrated exceptional composure to claim 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 seal the victory, echoing his only previous Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff win over the same opponent.
Sunday's Play Drama
Rai entered the last day with a one-shot lead over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He finished with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 closing round that included seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood moved one shot ahead with two holes remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but Rai tied it up again on the seventeenth and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the final green.
Playoff Decider
That set up a playoff at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even more individual. To play with him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” stated Rai, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round 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 do, finishing one shot behind in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 closing round of 62. It was his best-ever round on the European Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.
The Danish golfer fired six birdies of his as well, but his chances of leading the standings were hit by a bogey on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an excellent last round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Hillier.
