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The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable nerve to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, defeating his compatriot in a tense play-off following a topsy-turvy final round of play.

The Englishman nailed a crucial birdie from just over eight feet to seal the victory, echoing his only previous tournament triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a playoff victory over Fleetwood.

Sunday's Play Drama

The champion started the final round with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of twenty-under after a up-and-down, 67 closing round that featured seven birdies and two bogeys.

Fleetwood edged one shot clear with the 16th and 17th remaining after a birdie putt on the 16th, but his rival tied it up again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie putt to win outright on the final green.

Play-Off Decider

This set up a play-off at the Yas Links course where Rai triumphed to take the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in winnings.

{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even more individual. To play with him the final two rounds was really special,” stated Rai, the current world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on playing the round and maintaining focus, it’s difficult to describe at the present how it feels. It is incredible to be stood here.”

Other Performances

The Northern Irish star left himself a bit too far to do, finishing one shot short in a shared third place with the Dane, after a spectacular 62 closing round of ten-under. It was his lowest-ever round on the European Tour, comprising eight birdies and one eagle.

The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his chances of topping the standings were hit by a bogey on the 12th. England’s Mansell hit an superb last round seven-under to finish in a tie for fifth place with Australia’s Daniel Hillier.