Jon Rahm transformed recent frustration into a record-breaking victory at the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, closing with a five-under 67 to win by two strokes on his tournament debut at Yas Links.
The Spaniard finished at 23-under to claim a record sixth Rolex Series title, moving clear of Tyrrell Hatton, who had also won five. It was Rahm’s 11th DP World Tour victory and his first on the circuit since the 2023 Masters.
The final round briefly developed into a four-player contest. Rahm, Hatton, Rory McIlroy and Francesco Laporta were tied at 20-under during a crowded back-nine battle before Rahm separated himself with a decisive run.
McIlroy launched the early charge, driving the opening green for birdie before holing a long eagle putt from off the second green. Rahm and Laporta responded, while Hatton remained close enough to turn the final group into a sustained contest.
The championship began to swing Rahm’s way at the 12th. Laporta dropped a shot after finding trouble, while Rahm converted from close range for birdie to open a two-stroke advantage.
Laporta’s challenge effectively ended with a triple bogey at the 13th, leaving Hatton as Rahm’s principal threat.
The defining shot arrived at the par-five 15th, where Rahm struck a six-iron close enough to leave a tap-in birdie. Hatton also birdied the hole but could not reduce the two-shot deficit, and Rahm secured the title with three composed pars.
The victory carried additional significance after an uneven period in DP World Tour events. Rahm had arrived following a break from competition and the birth of another child, then went from finishing last in his previous completed appearance to winning in Abu Dhabi.
Hatton’s closing 68 earned him sole second at 21-under and secured his place in the DP World Tour Championship.
McIlroy finished third at 19-under, a result that lifted him to second in the Race to Dubai as he pursues a record-equalling eighth Harry Vardon Trophy.
Laporta took fourth at 17-under, while Angel Ayora, David Puig and Bernd Wiesberger shared fifth at 16-under.
For Rahm, the week delivered more than a return to the winner’s circle. By outlasting three challengers and taking sole ownership of the Rolex Series wins record, he re-established himself at the forefront of the DP World Tour at a crucial stage of the season.
Photo – DPWT
