Aaron Rai
Image: Asian Tour
England’s Aaron Rai battled through a rain-soaked day to prevail over compatriot Matthew Fitzpatrick by signing for a one-under-par 69 to win the $2 million HONMA Hong Kong Open presented by Amundi (November 22-25) by one-shot.
Despite holding an overnight six-shot lead, victory at Hong Kong Golf Club was never going to be a straightforward affair especially from a fast-charging Fitzpatrick who was determined to put a dent to Rai’s title hopes. However, the 23-year-old wasn’t to be denied.
India’s Shubhankar Sharma meanwhile extended his lead atop the Habitat for Humanity Standings after signing for a 67 to cap another commendable week by finishing tied for sixth with Spain’s Sergio Garcia and Rafa Cabrera-Bello.
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“It was tough, but again, I really just tried to play the course as much as possible… This win is incredible. It definitely hasn’t sunk in just yet. Probably need a few days for that to happen, but it’s incredible to win on any Tour,” said an elated Aaron Rai after the win.
Did You Know?
The Englishman has a knack for breaking records. Before breaking the course record at Hong Kong Golf Club with a second-round 61, Rai broke the ‘Lee Westwood World Puttmaster Record’ by holing 207 consecutive ten-foot putts as a 15-year-old.