Aaron Rai Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Battle Versus Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
Aaron Rai displayed exceptional composure to claim the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on Sunday, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off following a rollercoaster last day of play.
The Englishman sank a crucial birdie putt from around eight feet to seal the win, echoing his sole prior tournament success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff victory against Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion started the last day with a one-shot lead over countryman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of 263 after a topsy-turvy, 67 closing round that featured seven birdies and two bogeys.
Fleetwood edged one shot clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the final hole.
Play-Off Climax
That led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner prevailed to take the title and $1.5m (£1.13m) in prize money.
{“Tommy is a world-class golfer and an even more person. To play with him the final two rounds was truly memorable,” stated the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s hard to put into words at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Notable Contenders
The Northern Irish star found himself a bit too far to make up, coming up one shot short in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the DP World Tour, including eight birdies and an eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdie putts of his own, but his chances of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell hit an superb final-round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.
