The English golfer Wins Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Dramatic Play-Off Showdown Against Tommy Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer demonstrated remarkable nerve to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the final day, beating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff after a rollercoaster final round of competition.
The Englishman nailed a decisive birdie from just over eight foot to clinch the victory, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a play-off victory over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion started the final round with a single stroke lead over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that featured seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood moved one shot ahead with the 16th and 17th to play after a birdie putt on the 16th, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the final green.
Playoff Decider
That set up a play-off at the Yas Links course where Rai triumphed to claim the championship and $1.5 million (£1.13m) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even more person. 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 describe at the present how it is. It is amazing to be stood here.”
Other Performances
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to do, finishing one shot short in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 10-under closing round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever round on the European Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.
Højgaard carded six birdie putts of his own, but his chances of topping the standings were hit by a bogey on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell produced an excellent final-round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Hillier.
