Tyrrell Hatton admits what feels ‘odd’ about the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship after shooting 64 on day one

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Tyrrell Hatton carded a stunning eight-under 64 on day one of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links Golf Club.

The Englishman made ten birdies on the par-72 layout, including six on the back nine. It was vintage stuff from the LIV Golf star in what was his first outing since his victory at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at the start of October.

Tommy Fleetwood currently leads the way after carding a ten-under-par 62 round on Thursday. Joaquin Niemann is at six under, and Rory McIlroy is one shot back at five under.

Tyrrell Hatton describes what’s ‘odd’ about Yas Links

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Hatton is currently sixth in the European Ryder Cup rankings and will be looking to boost his Bethpage Black chances with another victory this weekend.

The exquisite Yas Links has hosted the HSBC Championship since 2022, and Hatton has admitted it’s a weird feeling to play the course in November instead of January.

“Yeah, it’s been great,” Hatton said during his post-round media duties. “It’s a little bit odd this week because normally, we’re here in January, and it’s the start of the season. I guess, in some ways, it’s consistent with feeling maybe a little bit rusty coming into this tournament.

“Yeah, it’s great to be back out here and looking forward to the rest of the week.”

Where Tyrrell Hatton is in the Race to Dubai

McIlroy is currently leading the Race to Dubai and is on course to match Seve Ballesteros’ six order of merit titles.

The Northern Irishman has previously spoken of his desire to land nine Race to Dubai wins and beat Colin Montgomerie’s long-standing record.

As for Hatton, it will take something pretty spectacular for the LIV man to muscle his way into contention for the season-ending price.

Hatton currently sits 22nd in the rankings, having only played eight tournaments this season. Hatton’s outstanding DP World Tour fines have been appealed, which has allowed him to compete during the busy autumnal stretch of the season.

When the 2025 season rolls around, Hatton will likely accrue more fines, once again putting his Ryder Cup participation in doubt. To maintain membership, those who wish to be selected for Luke Donald’s team must compete in four DP World Tour events.