Aaron Rai Wins the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Against Tommy Fleetwood

Aaron Rai displayed exceptional composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating his compatriot in a tense playoff following a topsy-turvy last day of competition.

The Englishman sank a crucial birdie from around eight foot to seal the win, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off win against the same opponent.

Sunday's Play Drama

The champion started the final round with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under final round that featured seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.

The challenger edged one shot ahead with two holes remaining after a birdie on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie putt to claim victory on the last green.

Play-Off Climax

That set up a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner triumphed to take the title and $1.5m (£1.13m) in prize money.

{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even better individual. To play with him the final two rounds was really special,” said Rai, 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 moment how it feels. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.”

Other Performances

The Northern Irish star found himself just too much to make up, coming up a stroke behind in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever score on the European Tour, including eight birdie putts and an eagle.

Højgaard fired six birdies of his own, but his chances of leading the leaderboard were hit by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Mansell hit an excellent last round seven-under to finish tied for fifth with Australian Daniel Hillier.