The English golfer Secures Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Thrilling Playoff Showdown Versus Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer demonstrated remarkable nerve to claim the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, beating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off after a rollercoaster last day of play.
Rai nailed a decisive birdie putt from just over eight foot to clinch the win, echoing his sole prior Rolex Series success at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was also a playoff victory against Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
Rai started the last day with a one-shot lead over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdie putts and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot ahead with the 16th and 17th to play after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then missed a ten-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last green.
Play-Off Climax
This led to a play-off at Yas Links where Rai triumphed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13 million) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a world-class golfer and an even more individual. To play with him the last two days was truly memorable,” said Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to describe at the present how it is. It is amazing to be stood here.”
Notable Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a stunning 10-under closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever round on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his chances of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Richard Mansell hit an superb last round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Hillier.
