The English golfer Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Playoff Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer demonstrated exceptional composure to claim the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on Sunday, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense playoff following a topsy-turvy last day of competition.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie from around eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his only previous Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off victory over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Excitement
Rai started the last day with a single stroke advantage over countryman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of twenty-under after a topsy-turvy, five-under closing round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood edged a stroke clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the sixteenth, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last green.
Play-Off Decider
That set up a playoff at Yas Links where Rai prevailed to take the championship and $1.5m (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better individual. To play with him the last two days was really special,” said the winner, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on your game and maintaining focus, it’s hard to put into words at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be stood here.”
Notable Contenders
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to make up, finishing one shot behind in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 10-under final round of 62. It was his best-ever round on the European Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his as well, but his hopes of leading the standings were hit by a bogey on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an superb last round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.
