In a dazzling display of consistency and composure, Spain’s Alejandro del Rey secured his breakthrough European Tour title at the Ras Al Khaimah Championship in the United Arab Emirates. The 26-year-old rising star delivered a masterclass over the weekend, firing three consecutive rounds of 6-under 66 to finish at 22-under par, four shots clear of his nearest rival.
A Weekend of Flawless Golf
Del Rey’s path to victory was paved by his incredible consistency and mistake-free golf over the final two rounds. The Spaniard navigated the Al Hamra Golf Club layout without a single blemish on his scorecard, notching 12 birdies and 24 pars across the weekend.
Starting the final round with a two-shot lead, del Rey quickly extended his advantage with a blistering start. Birdies at the first, second, and fifth holes saw him stretch the lead to five shots. Another trio of birdies from the 11th hole onward put the result beyond doubt, allowing him to comfortably close out the win.
Keeping the Chasing Pack at Bay
England’s Marcus Armitage, who led after the first two rounds, mounted the strongest challenge but ultimately had to settle for second place at 18-under par following a closing 68. Spain’s David Puig finished a further three shots adrift in third place after a final round 65.
I just worked really hard since then because I just didn’t want to be in that position much longer. And I feel like I’ve played many years with a lot of friends that have won out here, and I knew I could do it but it just wasn’t showing up.
– Alejandro del Rey
Finding Joy on the Course Again
For del Rey, the victory marked a welcome return to his best form after struggling for motivation in recent times. He admitted that he had reached a point last year where he didn’t feel like he was having much fun on the golf course, with middling results sapping his drive.
This title, coming in his 70th start on the European Tour, validated the hard work he had put in to rediscover his love for the game and reignite his competitive fire. Embraced by his fellow Spanish players on the 18th green, del Rey could finally savor the taste of success at the highest level.
A Star on the Rise
While it may have been a long time coming, del Rey’s maiden European Tour victory certainly didn’t look like a fluke. The Spaniard oozed confidence and class all week, demonstrating a level of self-belief and comfort on the big stage that suggests this could be the first of many titles.
- Pedigree: A standout amateur career that included representing Europe in the 2015 Palmer Cup.
- Promise: Three top-10s last season hinted at his potential before this breakout win.
- Putting prowess: Ranked in the top 20 in Strokes Gained: Putting on the European Tour this season.
With his game in sparkling shape and newfound belief, Alejandro del Rey looks poised to make a significant impact on the European Tour in the coming years. Golf fans should get used to hearing his name.
