Fleetwood spreads wings after another strong campaign in Abu Dhabi – Golf News
Tommy Fleetwood’s extraordinary links with Abu Dhabi show no signs of waning, with the Englishman producing another superb game on Friday.
Two-time tournament winner Fleetwood continued his fine form with a 6-under 66 to remain firmly competitive heading into the weekend. The 34-year-old got off to a stunning start with three consecutive birdies and never looked back.
“It was a great day,” Fleetwood said later. “I got off to a perfect start – birdie, birdie, birdie – which is always important, especially after a round the day before. They say it’s hard to build off a low score, so starting strong really helps.”
Fleetwood attributes his ability to maintain momentum to his sharp short game and smart course management, especially when facing tricky holes in the rough. “We read lies very clearly,” he explained. “It was really nice to keep the ball out of the rough and I putted solid again. Six under was a really good score.”
Although Fleetwood played with composure, he denied he was on “autopilot.”
“Not at all,” he said. “This course still tests you. The scores have been low and if you want to do well on Sunday, you have to be consistent – keep hitting the ball, keep scoring. I’ve done a lot of things well, but I know how quickly the game can turn. I’m going to stay focused and keep doing the right things.”
Fleetwood is coming off another long season and believes his current form is a result of learning from the best in the game.
“In my first few years of touring, I would get tired and disappointed going to these end-of-season events,” he said. “I noticed that the top players were still competing hard and still motivated until the end. That’s what I want to emulate.”
Now, with just a few rounds left this year, Fleetwood remains motivated. “I’m still very motivated,” he added. “I want to play well and finish strong. Hopefully I can have another good round tomorrow, compete on Sunday and carry that into next week and then take a break.”
Fleetwood’s determination and his ongoing love affair with Abu Dhabi suggest he will once again be a major factor as the tournament heads into the decisive weekend.
