🔗 Share this article The English golfer Secures the Abu Dhabi Title in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Versus Tommy Fleetwood Aaron Rai displayed remarkable composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on Sunday, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a dramatic play-off after a topsy-turvy last day of play. Rai sank a crucial birdie from just over eight feet to clinch the victory, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a playoff victory against Fleetwood. Sunday's Play Drama The champion entered the last day with a one-shot lead over countryman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, 67 closing round that included seven birdie putts and two bogeys. Fleetwood edged a stroke clear with two holes remaining after a birdie putt on the sixteenth, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the last hole. Playoff Decider That led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to take the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in prize money. {“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more person. To compete alongside him the last two days was truly memorable,” said the winner, the current world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to put into words at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.” Other Contenders The Northern Irish star left 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 best-ever round on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdies and an eagle. The Danish golfer fired six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the twelfth. English golfer Richard Mansell produced an excellent last round 63 to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.