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The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional composure to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a dramatic play-off following a rollercoaster last day of competition.

The Englishman sank a crucial birdie putt from just over eight foot to clinch the win, repeating his only previous tournament triumph at the Scottish Open in 2020, which was likewise a play-off victory against Fleetwood.

Sunday's Play Excitement

Rai entered the last day with a single stroke advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, five-under closing round that included seven birdies and two bogeys.

The challenger moved a stroke clear with two holes to play after a birdie putt on the sixteenth, but Rai pulled level again on the seventeenth and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to claim victory on the final green.

Playoff Climax

That led to a playoff at the Yas Links course where Rai triumphed to claim 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 final two rounds was truly memorable,” said Rai, the present world No 30. “You’re so focused on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s hard to describe at the present how it feels. It is amazing to be holding the trophy.”

Other Performances

The Northern Irish star left himself just too much to do, finishing a stroke short in a tie for third with the Dane, after a spectacular 10-under final round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s best-ever round on the DP World Tour, including eight birdie putts and one eagle.

The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of leading the standings were dented by a dropped shot on the 12th. English golfer Mansell produced an excellent last round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australian Daniel Hillier.