Jon Rahm wins Abu Dhabi Championship after leaving LIV Golf

Rahm claims victory with low score

The Spaniard shot a five-under 67 in the final round to finish at 23-under par for the week. He held a two-stroke lead over Tyrrell Hatton who finished with a 68 and Rory McIlroy who recorded a 69. This event served as the first of two season-ending playoff tournaments held at Yas Links in the United Arab Emirates. Rahm banked a winner's check of $1.5 million after pulling away from his rivals during the final round.

Context of career rebuild and LIV exit

This victory marks a successful start to Rahm's career rebuild following the demise of the breakaway LIV Golf circuit. The golfer had not won on the European tour since November 2022 when he secured the World Tour Championship title. During his seven-week absence from competition, his wife gave birth to their second daughter while he finalized his departure from LIV. He is now heading back to established tours for next season after giving up millions of dollars owed to him.

Race standings and future tournament details

Rory McIlroy moved into second place behind Eugenio Chacarra with one event remaining in the Race to Dubai. The Scot faces a 500-point gap to Chacarra who holds the lead after finishing tied for 22nd this week. Patrick Reed finished tied for 43rd while McIlroy looks to join Colin Montgomerie with a record eight titles next season. The World Tour Championship in Dubai starts Thursday with 2,000 points available for the winner and 1,335 for second place.