🔗 Share this article Aaron Rai Clinches the Abu Dhabi Title in Dramatic Playoff Battle Against Fellow Englishman Fleetwood The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable composure to secure the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on Sunday, beating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off after a topsy-turvy last day of play. Rai nailed a decisive birdie putt from around eight feet to clinch the win, echoing his sole prior tournament triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off win over the same opponent. Final Round Drama Rai entered the final round with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Denmark’s Højgaard. He ended up with a overall score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdies and two bogeys. The challenger moved one shot ahead with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival pulled level again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last green. Playoff Decider This set up a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner triumphed to take the title and $1.5m (£1.13m) in prize money. {“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better individual. To compete alongside him the last two days was truly memorable,” 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 is. It is amazing to be stood here.” Notable Performances Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to do, coming up one shot short in a tie for third with the Dane, after a stunning 10-under final round of 62. It was his lowest-ever round on the European Tour, including eight birdie putts and an eagle. Højgaard fired six birdie putts of his as well, but his chances of leading the leaderboard were dented by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Mansell produced an superb last round seven-under to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Hillier.