Jon Rahm claimed his first significant victory since the 2023 Masters by winning the Abu Dhabi Championship at Yas Links GC. The Spaniard finished at 23 under par, two strokes clear of former LIV Golf teammate Tyrrell Hatton. The win marks Rahm's 11th DP World Tour title in just 92 starts, making him the third fastest to reach that total behind only Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros. He also secured his sixth Rolex Series victory, breaking a tie with Hatton for the most in that category.
"It means a lot," Rahm said. "Still almost not letting myself believe it. It's been quite a while since I've played good in a DP World Tour event. And in my last showing, if you don't count the withdrawals, I think I finished last. So, from last to first is a pretty good feeling." He highlighted a near-flawless back nine, including a 6-iron approach on the 15th hole that he called a contender for shot of the year.
The victory propels Rahm from 51st to 6th in the Race to Dubai standings. He now has a mathematical chance to win the season-long title at next week's DP World Tour Championship, a feat he last accomplished in 2019. "I didn't think I would ever have a chance to win it," Rahm said. "Very excited. Actually gives me a little extra incentive next week."
Rory McIlroy, seeking a record eighth Race to Dubai crown, finished third at 19 under par. The result halved his deficit to leader Eugenio Chacarra and moved McIlroy into second place in the standings, ahead of Patrick Reed. Casey Jarvis and Aaron Rai round out the top five. McIlroy said he remains confident heading into the final event: "It's a pretty familiar spot for me going into the DP World Tour Championship, and I'm excited for it."
