Rai Scores Albatross to Tie with Fleetwood for Lead at Abu Dhabi Championship

Aaron Rai delivered a remarkable performance at the Abu Dhabi Championship, scoring an impressive albatross that placed him at the forefront of the leaderboard. His score of 8-under 64 on Friday has him tied with Tommy Fleetwood after the second round of this prestigious tournament.

Notable Achievements at Yas Links Golf Club

During the tournament, Rai achieved an albatross on the par-5 No. 2 hole, navigating the ball from 214 yards. The shot pitched onto the green and rolled into the hole, much to Rai’s surprise. “You couldn’t see it from the back of the fairway, so it was a nice surprise,” he remarked.

Rai began his round two strokes behind the leader and finished with a bogey-free performance. This event marks one of the final tournaments in the European Tour’s 2025 season.

Tommy Fleetwood’s Strong Performance

Tommy Fleetwood, who previously won this championship in both 2017 and 2018, reinforced his competitiveness with a second-round score of 66. He started strong, achieving birdies on the first three holes, bringing his cumulative total to 14 under par.

Fleetwood expressed his optimism, stating, “I’m having a lot of good rounds.” He recently contributed to Europe’s Ryder Cup victory and claimed the India Championship, adding to his momentum heading into this event.

Challengers Close Behind

Three players are close to the leaders: Andy Sullivan, Nicolai Hojgaard, and Richard Sterne, all sitting two strokes back. Shane Lowry follows closely with one shot behind after scoring 69.

Rory McIlroy’s Bid

Rory McIlroy, ranked second globally, shot a consistent 68 for both rounds, placing him at 8 under overall, six strokes behind the leaders. McIlroy aims to win the Race to Dubai standings, a feat he is seeking for the seventh time, which would put him just one win shy of Colin Montgomerie’s record.

Marco Penge, who holds a narrow lead over McIlroy in the Race to Dubai, is just one stroke ahead after a solid performance of 68.

Overview of the Tournament

• Aaron Rai – Tied for the lead, 8-under 64
• Tommy Fleetwood – Tied for the lead, 14-under (66 on Friday)
• Challengers: Andy Sullivan (67), Nicolai Hojgaard (67), Richard Sterne (68)
• Rory McIlroy – 8-under (68, second straight round)
• Marco Penge – 1 stroke ahead of McIlroy (68)

The Abu Dhabi Championship continues to deliver thrilling golf as players vie for crucial rankings ahead of the tour’s concluding events.