Tommy Fleetwood Leads After Impressive First Round At Abu Dhabi Championship

Tommy Fleetwood made an impressive start at the Abu Dhabi Championship, knowing that victories aren't secured after just one round. The Ryder Cup star, in fine form, ended Thursday tied for the lead with

eight birdies and no bogeys. He shares this position with four others, including New Zealand's Kazuma Kobori, South African Richard Sterne, and Frenchman Adrien Saddier, all carding an eight-under 64.

Fleetwood's long-time friend Shane Lowry also joined the leaders. Lowry achieved nine birdies and dropped just one shot. Reflecting on his performance, Fleetwood said, "I played well. I was very, very good off the tee and I think I made some good decisions off the tee. " He added that a crucial par save on the 12th hole followed by a birdie was key to his strong round.

Lowry's only misstep came on the 12th hole after making four birdies on the front nine and another five on the back. "I just like the place," he remarked about the course conditions. "Hopefully I can put four rounds together this week," added Lowry, who is also Fleetwood's Ryder Cup teammate.

Kazuma Kobori had an equally remarkable first round, scoring an eagle along with six birdies to secure his spot at the top of the leaderboard. "At the start it was very dicey," Kobori noted about his game. However, he managed to maintain composure and performed well on the back nine.

Nicolai Hojgaard and Alex Noren are part of a group of seven players closely trailing at seven under par. This competitive field sets up an exciting tournament as players aim to maintain their form over the coming days.

Fleetwood emphasised that while it's impossible to win on Thursday, starting with an eight-under score is a positive beginning. "You can obviously play your way out of it," he stated about early performances in tournaments.

Turn up the volume for some @TommyFleetwood1 ball striking #ADGolfChamps | #RolexSeries pic.twitter.com/qYe6kfytBL

- DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) November 6, 2025

The tournament continues to unfold in Abu Dhabi with many players showing potential for strong finishes. As competitors strive for consistency across all four rounds, spectators can expect thrilling golf action in this prestigious event.