Abu Dhabi Championship: Aaron Rai beats Tommy Fleetwood in play-off
Aaron Rai overcame the challenge of Tommy Fleetwood in the play-off to win the Abu Dhabi Championship after a thrilling final round at Yas Links.
Rai made a two-foot birdie putt on the first play-off hole to secure victory after fellow Englishman Fleetwood could only make par.
The duo had previously finished the tournament at the top of the leaderboard with 25 points, but Rai missed his chance to win in regulation when his birdie putt on the 18th went over the edge of the hole.
“It’s hard to summarize [my emotions]” said Rai, 30. “You’re so focused on playing the tour and staying in the region that it’s hard to put into words what it feels like right now. It’s amazing to be standing here.
“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. It’s been really special to play with him the last two days. It’s great to be here.”
Rory McIlroy finished one shot behind on the DP World Tour after a stunning final round of 62, his best round this season.
Alongside his 24th-place opponent was Denmark’s Nicolai Hojgaard, who narrowly missed a last-minute eagle chance to join Fleetwood and Rai in the play-offs.
