23 Jan 2017

Fleetwood wins in Abu Dhabi, Fox 19th

8:10 pm on 23 January 2017

Britain's Tommy Fleetwood kept his composure to come from behind and win his first European title in more than three years at the Abu Dhabi Championship.

Tommy Fleetwood.

Tommy Fleetwood. Photo: Photosport

The 26-year-old Englishman posted a five-under-par 67 in his final round to finish 17 under par -- one shot ahead of US Open champion Dustin Johnson, who hit an eagle on the last, and 2014 Abu Dhabi winner, Pablo Larrazabal of Spain.

Fleetwood's second tour win came after he began the final round one shot behind overnight leader Tyrrell Hatton.

New Zealand's Ryan Fox carded a one-under par final round 71 to finish his first event as a fully fledged tour player on eight-under par, tied for 19th.

With rounds of 69, 71, 69 and 71 the Auckland-born professional didn't look out of place as he pocketed an impressive $51,611 NZD.

It was an amazing week for the now 30-year-old who celebrated his birthday in style by playing alongside world beaters Rickie Fowler and Dustin Johnson in the third round.

Fox, who is known for his power hitting, finished the week second in driving distance behind Johnson who is known as one of the biggest drivers on the PGA Tour.

Ryan Fox at the New Zealand Golf Open 2014

Ryan Fox at the New Zealand Golf Open 2014 Photo: PHOTOSPORT

On a day of difficult winds at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Fleetwood posted an outward 36 before making his move on the back nine, chipping in for an eagle at the 10th and hitting three other birdies.

The victory continued Fleetwood's fine recent form, which has seen him post 10 top 20 finishes in his last 14 starts.

"I thought maybe the second win would come sooner to be honest," he told the European tour website. "It's been a massive comeback.

"I had a really hard time from July 2015 to July last year where I really struggled with my game. It's been an awkward curve.

"The only thing left was 'let's get a win' but, you know, if you keep knocking on the door it will come.

"The chip-in on 10, birdie on 11, changed everything. All of a sudden from nowhere I was leading."

Fleetwood's only other tour win was at the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles in August 2013.

- Reuters