Daniel Hillier Eyes Victory as Aaron Rai Leads Abu Dhabi Championship

In a thrilling turn of events at the Abu Dhabi Championship, New Zealand golfer Daniel Hillier has positioned himself just three strokes behind the leader, Aaron Rai, heading into the final round. Hillier, 27, showcased his skills with an impressive seven-under-par 65 during the third round, marking his best performance of the tournament. This result places him in a strong position for the concluding 18 holes.

Hillier’s stellar round included a remarkable nine birdies, with two coming on the last two holes, propelling him to a total score of 17-under-par for the tournament. He currently shares fifth place with English golfer Andy Sullivan, who is also at 17-under. The tournament is part of the DP World Tour and boasts a substantial prize fund of US$9 million, with the champion set to receive US$1.53 million.

Hillier’s Path to PGA Tour Aspirations

Beyond the immediate rewards of the championship, a solid finish could significantly advance Hillier’s ambitions to secure a PGA Tour card for 2026. As the tournament progresses, the final round promises to be a decisive moment not only for the championship standings but also for Hillier’s career trajectory.

Aaron Rai remains the player to beat, leading the tournament with an impressive 20-under-par. His consistent performance throughout the event has solidified his position at the top, creating a challenging pursuit for Hillier and the other competitors. With the final round on the horizon, both players and fans alike eagerly anticipate what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the Abu Dhabi Championship.