Kiwi Golfer Daniel Hillier Contends at $16 Million Abu Dhabi Championship
Daniel Hillier, the 27-year-old golfer from New Zealand, shares fifth place after the third round, just three shots behind the leader at the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi Championship.
Strong Third Round Performance
Hillier delivered his best round of the tournament with a seven-under-par 65, including nine birdies and two birdies on the final two holes. This performance put him at 17-under overall with 18 holes left to play.
Current Tournament Standings
- Hillier is tied for fifth alongside English golfer Andy Sullivan.
- The leader, Aaron Rai, is at 20-under for the tournament.
Prize Money and PGA Tour Card Implications
The tournament features a prize fund of US$9 million with the winner receiving US$1.53 million. Additionally, a strong finish will boost Hillier’s chances of securing a PGA Tour card for 2026.
The top 10 DP World Tour players not already exempt earn PGA Tour cards for the following year.
Hillier currently ranks 20th on the DP World Tour and aims to move up to claim one of these valuable spots.
Fellow Kiwi Kazuma Kobori's Progress
Kazuma Kobori, also from New Zealand, improved his standing with a three-under 69 in the third round, moving to 10-under for the tournament.
After sharing the lead in the first round, the 24-year-old had a setback with a triple-bogey eight on the last hole of his second round, finishing that day one-over.
"The 24-year-old was left to rue a triple-bogey eight on the last hole of his second round which saw him finish the day one-over."
Author's summary: Daniel Hillier climbs the leaderboard at the Abu Dhabi Championship, positioning himself to secure a PGA Tour card with one round remaining.