Tommy Fleetwood Leads Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship After Dramatic Third Round

Tommy Fleetwood holds the solo lead at the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. The Englishman carded a third-round 68 to reach 11-under par. He leads by one stroke heading into Sunday’s final round at Yas Links Golf Club.

The tournament is the penultimate event of the DP World Tour season. Fleetwood is a two-time champion at this event, seeking a historic third victory. His experience is proving vital on the challenging course.

Fleetwood’s Commanding Position

Fleetwood started strong with an opening 64. That score tied him for the lead with Aaron Rai, Shane Lowry, and others. He maintained his form throughout the second and third rounds.

According to Reuters, his consistent ball-striking has been key. Fleetwood has found most fairways and greens in regulation. This precision has built a narrow but significant lead.

Aaron Rai remains his closest challenger. Rai is just one shot back at 10-under par. His second-round albatross provided a massive momentum boost.

Race to Dubai Implications Intensify

The tournament’s outcome carries major weight for the Race to Dubai standings. Several players are jockeying for position ahead of the season finale. A high finish offers valuable ranking points.

Tyrrell Hatton is among those in contention. He sits third in the Race to Dubai standings. A strong performance in Abu Dhabi would solidify his position.

Rory McIlroy leads the overall season standings. He is also in the field this week, adding to the competitive pressure. Every shot counts in the year-long race.

Tommy Fleetwood now controls his own destiny at the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. The final round promises a thrilling conclusion to this premier DP World Tour event.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is closest to challenging Tommy Fleetwood?

Aaron Rai is his nearest competitor, just one stroke behind. Keita Nakajima is also tied for second at 10-under par. The leaderboard remains very tight.

What was Aaron Rai’s remarkable shot?

Rai holed his second shot from 214 yards on a par-5 during the second round. This resulted in a very rare albatross, scoring three-under on a single hole. It was a pivotal moment in the tournament.

How does this event affect the Race to Dubai?

It is the second-to-last tournament of the DP World Tour season. Players earn crucial points that determine the final season-long champion. The standings can shift dramatically based on the results.

Where can viewers watch the final round?

Broadcast coverage is available on Golf Channel and various DP World Tour streaming partners. The final groups are expected to tee off in the morning local time. Check local listings for precise broadcast times.

Has Tommy Fleetwood won this event before?

Yes, he is a two-time champion of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. A victory on Sunday would mark his third title here. This history gives him a significant mental edge.