The English golfer Clinches the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Playoff Battle Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood
The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable nerve to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic playoff after a topsy-turvy last day of competition.
The Englishman sank a decisive birdie putt from just over eight feet to seal the win, echoing his sole prior Rolex Series triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was also a play-off win over Fleetwood.
Sunday's Play Drama
The champion entered the last day with a single stroke advantage over countryman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He finished with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that included seven birdies and a pair of bogeys.
Fleetwood moved one shot ahead with two holes to play after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie putt to win outright on the final hole.
Play-Off Climax
That led to a play-off at the Yas Links course where the eventual winner prevailed to take the title and $1.5m (ÂŁ1.13 million) in winnings.
{“Tommy is a world-class player and an even better person. To compete alongside him the last two days was really special,” said the winner, the current 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so focused on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to describe at the present how it is. It is incredible to be stood here.”
Notable Contenders
Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to do, finishing one shot behind in a shared third place with the Dane, after a stunning 10-under final round of 62. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever round on the European Tour, including eight birdies and an eagle.
The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings 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 Daniel Hillier.
