Aaron Rai edges Fleetwood in play-off to win in Abu Dhabi

Aaron Rai claimed his second Rolex Series title at the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense play-off after a gripping final round at Yas Links.

Rai started the day with a one-shot lead but quickly slipped two behind as playing partner Fleetwood made a fast start. The 29-year-old hit back with four birdies in a row from the fourth to reclaim a share of the lead, only for Fleetwood to regain control on a roller-coaster afternoon.

Refusing to go away, Rai produced a late surge with birdies on the 16th and 17th to draw level at 25-under heading up the last. He missed a good chance to win in regulation on the 18th green but made no mistake at the first extra hole, rolling in his birdie putt to secure his third DP World Tour victory.

Rai closed with a 5-under 67 featuring seven birdies and two bogeys, while Fleetwood signed for a bogey-free 66 with four birdies and an eagle. Race to Dubai leader Rory McIlroy lit up the day with a stunning 10-under 62 to finish one shot back in a tie for third with Nicolai Højgaard.

The win caps a huge week for Rai, who arrived in Abu Dhabi 55th in the season-long standings and needing a big result to qualify for next week’s DP World Tour Championship. He now heads there as the Tour’s most recent winner.

“It’s hard to sum up,” Rai said, after sharing an emotional embrace with his father, Amrik. “You’re so focused on staying in your zone. Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To play with him the last two days was really special.

“My caddie Jason was great after I missed the short putt on 14, just telling me to stay present and finish strong. The up-and-down on 15 helped a lot, and it was nice to close it out over the last few holes.”

Photo – Aaron Rai / DPWT