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The 30-year-old golfer displayed exceptional nerve to claim the prestigious Abu Dhabi title on the final day, beating Tommy Fleetwood in a tense play-off after a rollercoaster last day of play.

The Englishman sank a decisive birdie from just over eight foot to seal the victory, repeating his sole prior Rolex Series success at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was also a play-off victory over Fleetwood.

Final Round Excitement

Rai entered the last day with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He ended up with a total score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdie putts and a pair of bogeys.

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

Play-Off Climax

That set up a play-off at Yas Links where the eventual winner prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in winnings.

{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better individual. To play with him the final two rounds was really special,” said Rai, the present 30th-ranked player globally. “You’re so concentrated on your game and staying in the zone, it’s hard to describe at the moment how it is. It is incredible to be stood here.”

Other Contenders

The Northern Irish star found himself just too much to do, finishing a stroke behind in a tie for third with Højgaard, after a spectacular 10-under closing round of 62. It was his lowest-ever round on the European Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.

The Danish golfer carded six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were dented by a bogey on the 12th. England’s Mansell produced an excellent last round 63 to end up in a tie for fifth place with Australian Daniel Hillier.