Post by : Maya Rahman

In a stunning display of skill, English golfer Aaron Rai claimed victory at the 20th Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship 2025, hosted at Yas Links on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the title to Rai in front of an engaged audience. Finishing the tournament at 26 under par, Rai edged out fellow countryman Tommy Fleetwood, who ended at 25 under par. This win marks Rai’s first title in Abu Dhabi and his second Rolex Series trophy.

The competition featured 72 elite players as part of the Rolex Series and DP World Tour Finals. Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard and Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, who leads the Race to Dubai, completed the event tied at 24 under par. The exciting atmosphere on the final day escalated particularly at the 18th hole, where Rai secured his remarkable win.

Organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and DP World, the awards ceremony also saw the presence of Major General (Ret.) Abdullah Al Hashemi, Abdulfattah Sharaf from HSBC Middle East, Erik Nicolai from the European Tour Group, and DP World CEO Guy Kinnings. This event illustrated Abu Dhabi’s capability to host prestigious sporting events, supported by robust infrastructure, security, and fan involvement.

H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan commended the success of the 20th edition, reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global sports hub. He noted the leadership's support for promoting sports, tourism, and the values of tolerance and community engagement. The championship has played a key role in boosting Abu Dhabi’s tourism by drawing international visitors.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, congratulated Rai and highlighted the extraordinary organization of the championship. He expressed gratitude to sponsors, partners, and volunteers for their dedication and emphasized the impressive attendance from fans both locally and globally. The council continues its efforts to cultivate golf culture and appeal to younger audiences in the UAE and beyond.

The total prize purse reached around USD 9 million, with the champion taking home USD 1.52 million and 1,500 points, the runner-up earning USD 980,000 and 1,000 points, and third place gaining USD 560,000 and 565 points. This significant prize offering attracts elite competitors from across the globe, enhancing the event's competitive edge.

With 20 successful years behind it, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship continues to showcase the city as a destination for international golf. Supported by advanced sports facilities and strong government backing, Abu Dhabi remains a premier choice for elite tournaments and global sports tourism, fostering an atmosphere of peace, tolerance, and quality amenities.

#Sports News