As the golfing world gears up for the excitement of the upcoming Abu Dhabi Championship, all eyes are naturally drawn to Rory McIlroy, who stands as a clear favorite for the tournament. Yet, intriguing narratives often unfold in the background, and this year, the spotlight may just shift towards his close friend and fellow golfer, Shane Lowry. While McIlroy’s credentials are impeccable, his less-than-stellar performance at Yas Links in the 2022 edition raises questions. With Lowry appearing on the betting sheets at around four times the odds of the Northern Irishman, there’s sound reasoning to take a closer look at the 2019 Open Champion’s chances.
Shane Lowry first captured the Abu Dhabi Championship title at a different course in 2019. Although he found himself facing challenges on the Yas Links layout recently, his proficiency as a seasoned links golfer cannot be understated. The 37-year-old has consistently proven himself on courses that demand a strategic approach, adeptly navigating the winds and undulations typical of links-style layouts. His recent form shown in tournaments — with figures of 13-9-12-12-13-12 from his last six worldwide outings — suggests that he is far from being off form. With his competitive instincts firing and the spirit of Abu Dhabi beckoning, Lowry could be poised for another impressive run.
Given his track record and current odds, backing Shane Lowry to win, or at least an each-way bet, appears to be a shrewd option this season.
Olesen Could Prove Difficult To Stop
In the conversation of potential title contenders, Thorbjorn Olesen deserves a mention. The Danish golfer has demonstrated remarkable consistency in recent events, finishing 12th at both the Irish Open and the Dunhill Links Championship, alongside a runner-up finish at the Open de France and a commendable seventh at the Andalucia Masters. Known for his prowess on links courses, Olesen’s credentials are underscored by his recent victory at the DP World Tour title in Ras Al Khaimah earlier this year.
His ability to excel at coastal courses — Olesen has also earned titles at Verdura Resort, designed by Kyle Phillips, the same architect responsible for Yas Links — sets him apart as a serious contender. With his robust resume, Olesen offers an enticing bet for anyone looking to capitalize on his current momentum. A win or each-way bet on this high-class links golfer seems justifiable given his past performances and current form.
Hojgaard Set To Keep Season Alive
Another name to watch closely is Nicolai Hojgaard, who is at a critical juncture of the season. After winning the DP World Tour Championship last year, the young Dane finds himself in 67th place on the Race to Dubai rankings, making this week crucial for his hopes of defending his title. This season has been less than ideal for the 23-year-old, with his twin brother, Rasmus, stealing some of the spotlight. However, Nicolai is showing signs of a turnaround. His recent performances indicate an uptick in consistency, highlighted by finishes of 18th at the Open de France, 20th at the Andalucia Masters, and ninth at the Genesis Championship.
His past experience at Yas Links should serve him well; he finished in tenth place there last season. If he can maintain his improving trajectory and eliminate any remaining inconsistencies, there’s potential for a strong showing in Abu Dhabi. Betting on Hojgaard to win or considering him for an each-way position might be an investment worth considering for those looking for value in their bets.
Conclusion
The upcoming Abu Dhabi Championship promises not just high stakes but thrilling competition among seasoned golfers. While Rory McIlroy stands out as the favorite, Shane Lowry, Thorbjorn Olesen, and Nicolai Hojgaard bring their own compelling stories and capabilities to the fore. For fans and bettors alike, the choices are vibrant and full of potential for returns. Whether it’s Lowry’s grit, Olesen’s pedigree on links courses, or Hojgaard’s desire to reclaim his season, the Abu Dhabi Championship is set to deliver a spectacle that showcases the best of golfing talent. Now is the time for those invested in the sport to keep a keen eye on these contenders as they vie for glory in the Arabian sun.
