Daniel Hillier has risen to a share of fifth place, just three shots off the lead, heading into the final round of the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi Championship. The 27-year-old New Zealander produced his best round of the tournament in the penultimate event of the season, positioning himself well with 18 holes remaining.
Hillier carded a seven-under-par 65 in the third round, including nine birdies and finishing strongly with two birdies on his last two holes. This performance brought his total to 17-under for the tournament, just behind leader Aaron Rai, who stands at 20-under.
Sharing fifth place at 17-under, Hillier is tied with Englishman Andy Sullivan. The tournament features a prize fund of US$9 million, with the winner earning US$1.53 million.
A solid finish would also advance Hillier’s chances of earning a PGA Tour card for 2026. The top 10 DP World Tour players who are not already exempt will receive PGA Tour cards for the following year. Currently ranked No. 20 on the DP World Tour, Hillier still needs to improve his position to secure one of these spots.
Another Kiwi, Kazuma Kobori, improved his second round with a three-under 69, moving to 10-under for the tournament. The 24-year-old, who was a joint leader after the first round, suffered a setback with a triple-bogey eight on the last hole of his second round, leaving him one-over for that day.
Daniel Hillier moved within three shots of the lead ahead of the final round at the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi Championship.
Hillier’s steady progress and strong showing keep him in contention to finish among the top players and advance his career in global golf competition.
Author’s summary: Daniel Hillier’s strong third-round effort places him close to the lead at the Abu Dhabi Championship, with a chance to secure a PGA Tour card for 2026.