đ Share this article Aaron Rai Clinches Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in Thrilling Play-Off Battle Versus Fellow Englishman Fleetwood Aaron Rai displayed exceptional composure to secure the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on Sunday, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a dramatic play-off after a rollercoaster final round of competition. The Englishman nailed a crucial birdie from just over eight feet to seal the win, repeating his sole prior tournament success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off victory against the same opponent. Sunday's Play Drama Rai started the last day with a single stroke advantage over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 closing round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys. Fleetwood moved one shot ahead with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but Rai pulled level again on the 17th and then missed a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the final hole. Play-Off Climax This led to a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner triumphed to take the title and $1.5m (ÂŁ1.13m) in winnings. {âTommy is a phenomenal player and an even better individual. To compete alongside him the final two rounds was truly memorable,â said the winner, the present world No 30. âYouâre so focused on playing the round and staying in the zone, itâs difficult to describe at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be holding the trophy.â Other Performances The Northern Irish star found himself a bit too far to make up, coming up one shot behind in a tie for third with the Dane, after a stunning 62 closing round of 62. It was McIlroyâs lowest-ever round on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle. Højgaard fired six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of leading the standings were hit by a bogey on the twelfth. Englandâs Mansell hit an excellent last round seven-under to finish tied for fifth with Australian Hillier.