Jon Rahm pips Tyrrell Hatton as Rory McIlroy takes third at Abu Dhabi Championship on DP World Tour

Rahm seals Abu Dhabi victory

Rahm began Sunday with a one-shot lead after a third-round 66. He made six birdies and dropped one shot in the final round to secure a two-shot win over Hatton.

Hatton and McIlroy finish behind

Hatton had a chance to put more pressure on Rahm late in the round, but his 24-foot birdie attempt on the 17th came up inches short. Rahm then made a par putt from under five feet.

McIlroy finished two strokes behind Hatton in third place. His result puts him second in the Race To Dubai standings going into next week’s DP World Tour Championship, where he is seeking a record-equalling eighth win.

Laporta takes fourth place

Francesco Laporta, pursuing his first DP World Tour victory, made three birdies on the front nine to draw level with playing partner Rahm at the turn. He closed with a three-under 69.

Laporta recorded his 11th top-three finish at a tournament he has not yet won. The 36-year-old, who led after the second round, finished fourth, six shots behind Rahm.

Dubai title race remains open

Rahm started the week outside the top 50, but his victory kept him in contention for the Race To Dubai. He will need to win back-to-back in Dubai to remain in the hunt.