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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 after a topsy-turvy last day of competition.

Rai nailed a crucial birdie putt from just over eight foot to seal the victory, echoing his sole prior tournament triumph at the 2020 Scottish Open, which was likewise a play-off victory against the same opponent.

Sunday's Play Drama

The champion started the last day with a one-shot advantage over fellow Englishman Fleetwood and Danish golfer Nicolai Højgaard. He finished with a overall score of 263 after a up-and-down, 67 final round that included seven birdie putts and two bogeys.

The challenger moved a stroke clear with two holes remaining after a birdie on the sixteenth, but Rai tied it up again on the 17th and then failed to convert a 10-foot birdie attempt to win outright on the last hole.

Playoff Decider

This led to a playoff at Yas Links where Rai prevailed to claim the title and $1.5 million (£1.13 million) in prize money.

{“Tommy is a phenomenal player and an even better person. To play with him the last two days was really special,” said Rai, the current world No 30. “You’re so concentrated on playing the round and staying in the zone, it’s difficult to put into words at the moment how it feels. It is amazing to be stood here.”

Other Contenders

Rory McIlroy found himself just too much to make up, finishing a stroke short in a shared third place with Højgaard, after a stunning 10-under final round of ten-under. It was McIlroy’s lowest-ever round on the DP World Tour, comprising eight birdie putts and one eagle.

Højgaard fired six birdies of his as well, but his hopes of topping the standings were hit by a bogey on the 12th. English golfer Mansell produced an superb final-round 63 to finish tied for fifth with Australian Hillier.