Tommy Fleetwood Abu Dhabi Championship Chase One Shot Behind Aaron Rai
Tommy Fleetwood Abu Dhabi Championship — England’s Tommy Fleetwood closed to within a single shot of Aaron Rai after a strong finish in the third round at Yas Links, setting up a dramatic final day at the DP World Tour event.
Tommy Fleetwood Closes Gap on Leader Aaron Rai
Fleetwood birdied two of his final three holes to card a bogey-free 67, ending Saturday’s third round on 19 under par, just one stroke behind compatriot Aaron Rai. Rai’s superb six-under 66 — featuring seven birdies and a single bogey on the 17th — lifted him to 20 under overall, maintaining the lead heading into Sunday’s final round of the Abu Dhabi Championship.
“I am playing very good golf at the moment and I have found myself in this position a lot throughout the summer, but I never take it for granted,” Fleetwood said. “This is what you practise for — these are the times of our lives.”
Rai Seeks Second Win, Fleetwood Eyes Momentum
Rai, who captured the Wyndham Championship on the PGA Tour last season, will aim to add another title to his growing résumé. Fleetwood, ranked world number five, is seeking to continue his outstanding form after victories at the Tour Championship in August and the DP World India Championship in October.
Chasing Pack and Race to Dubai Stakes
Nicolai Hojgaard matched his second 65 of the week to share second with Fleetwood on 19 under, while Spain’s Nacho Elvira (65) sits two shots back on 18 under. Andy Sullivan and Daniel Hillier are tied for fourth at 17 under.
Rory McIlroy remains six shots adrift after a 66, yet still leads the Race to Dubai standings by fewer than 500 points over Marco Penge. The Abu Dhabi Championship is the first of two DP World Tour play-off events, with 9,000 points available this week and 12,000 next week in Dubai.
McIlroy, chasing a record-equalling seventh Race to Dubai crown, knows consistency is key, while Fleetwood — nearly 2,800 points behind — must win both events and hope McIlroy falters to have any chance of lifting the Harry Vardon Trophy.
Rai, Fleetwood and Hojgaard Set for Sunday Showdown
With only three strokes separating the top five players, Sunday’s final round promises fireworks. Both Rai and Fleetwood have enjoyed stellar recent seasons, and Yas Links has once again delivered low scoring and high drama.
Fans can expect an all-English duel for the title as Fleetwood, looking confident and composed, attempts to overtake Rai in pursuit of another DP World Tour victory and a late surge in the Race to Dubai.
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