Aaron Rai produced a clutch finish to claim his second Rolex Series crown at the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a nail-biting play-off at Yas Links.
The Englishman began Sunday with a one-shot advantage but quickly slipped two behind as Fleetwood surged out of the blocks. Rai responded in style, firing four straight birdies from the 4th to reclaim the lead in what became a thrilling, seesaw final round between the overnight leaders.
Rai on a bride run
Despite Fleetwood regaining control on the back nine, Rai delivered late fireworks of his own. Back-to-back birdies on 16 and 17 pulled him level heading to the 18th, where he missed a golden opportunity to win in regulation. But he made no mistake on the first extra hole, rolling in a confident birdie to seal victory and secure the third DP World Tour title of his career.
Rai closed with a seven-under-par 67 to reach 25-under, highlighted by seven birdies and just two bogeys. Fleetwood posted a flawless 66 featuring an eagle and four birdies but was edged out at the finish.
Race to Dubai
Race to Dubai leader Rory McIlroy surged into contention with a brilliant 62, finishing one shot back in a tie for third with Nicolai Højgaard. Daniel Hillier and Richard Mansell ended the week two strokes further behind on 22-under.
The win comes at a crucial time for Rai, who started the week 55th in the Race to Dubai and needing a big performance to qualify for next week’s DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. He now heads to Jumeirah Golf Estates as the Tour’s newest winner.
An emotional embrace with his father Amrik followed the decisive birdie. Reflecting on the moment, Rai said:
“It’s hard to put into words. You’re so focused on staying in your zone, so it takes time to process. To win here, especially after such a battle with Tommy, is amazing. He’s a phenomenal player and an even better person.”
He also praised caddie Jason Timmis for helping him recover from a short miss on the 14th:
“It was a shock to the system, but Jason kept me present. A big up-and-down on 15 really settled things, and the finish over the last few holes was special.”
Rai’s victory adds another layer of intrigue heading into Dubai as the season-ending finale awaits.
