The English golfer Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Playoff Battle Versus Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable nerve to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on Sunday, beating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff following a topsy-turvy last day of play.
The Englishman sank a decisive birdie putt from around eight feet to clinch the win, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a playoff win over the same opponent.
Final Round Excitement
Rai started the final round with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of twenty-under after a topsy-turvy, 67 closing round that featured seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.
The challenger edged a stroke ahead with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the last hole.
Play-Off Decider
That led to a playoff at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to take the title and $1.5m (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more individual. To compete alongside 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 hard to put into words at the moment how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to do, coming up a stroke behind in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a stunning 10-under final round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s best-ever score on the European Tour, comprising eight birdies and one eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of leading the leaderboard were hit by a bogey on the 12th. England’s Mansell hit an superb last round 63 to end up tied for fifth with Australia’s Hillier.