The Abu Dhabi Championship witnessed history in the making as England’s Paul Waring shattered records with a breathtaking performance. In a display of sheer brilliance, the 37-year-old shot a career-low 11-under 61 in the second round, setting a new 36-hole scoring record on the European Tour.
Waring’s round at Yas Links was nothing short of spectacular. He carded nine birdies and an eagle, remaining bogey-free throughout. The highlight of his day came on the 18th hole, where he unleashed a majestic draw with his 3-wood from approximately 260 yards out. The ball landed just 4 feet from the pin, setting up an easy birdie putt that secured his place in the record books.
A Record-Breaking Day
The European Tour confirmed that Waring’s 19-under par total after 36 holes is the lowest in relation to par in the tour’s storied history. His second-round 61, combined with his opening 64, propelled him to a commanding five-stroke lead heading into the weekend.
I’m over the moon. To shoot a score like that is just incredible. I had no idea it was a record until after I finished. It’s a pretty special moment.
Paul Waring
Chasing the Leader
The rest of the field faces an uphill battle to catch the red-hot Englishman. First-round leader Tommy Fleetwood, also from England, carded a solid 68 to sit five strokes back at 14-under par. He’s joined by a trio of players, including American Johannes Veerman and Danish duo Niklas Norgaard and Thorbjorn Olesen.
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy‘s title hopes took a hit on the 17th hole, where he suffered a costly triple bogey. The Northern Irishman, who can clinch a record-tying sixth Race to Dubai title with a win this week, posted a second consecutive 67 to sit nine strokes off the pace.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament moves into the weekend, all eyes will be on Paul Waring to see if he can maintain his blistering form. With a five-shot cushion, he’s in prime position to capture his fourth European Tour title and first since the 2018 Nordea Masters.
However, anything can happen in golf, and the chasing pack will be eager to apply pressure on the leader. Fleetwood, in particular, will be looking to make a charge and give himself a chance at victory on Sunday.
Regardless of the outcome, Paul Waring’s historic 36-hole performance at the Abu Dhabi Championship will be remembered as one of the most remarkable achievements in recent European Tour history. His 11-under 61 and record-breaking 19-under par total have set the stage for a thrilling weekend of golf in the United Arab Emirates.
