Kiwi Golfer Daniel Hillier Nears Lead at $16 Million Tournament
Daniel Hillier has advanced into a tie for fifth place, trailing the leader by only three shots ahead of the final round at the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi Championship. The 27-year-old New Zealander delivered his best performance so far in the penultimate event of the season, positioning himself as a strong contender with 18 holes remaining.
Strong Third Round Performance
Hillier recorded a seven-under-par 65 in his third round, highlighted by nine birdies, including birdies on his last two holes. This effort brought his tournament total to 17-under-par, putting him just behind leader Aaron Rai, who stands at 20-under.
Leaderboard Standings
- Daniel Hillier: 17-under, tied for fifth
- Andy Sullivan (English): Also tied for fifth at 17-under
- Aaron Rai: Leader at 20-under
Significance of the Tournament
The tournament boasts a $9 million prize fund (approximately $16 million NZD), with the winner receiving $1.53 million. Beyond the prize money, a strong finish for Hillier could advance his goal of securing a PGA Tour card for the 2026 season.
"The top 10 DP World Tour players not already exempt earn PGA Tour cards for the following year."
Currently ranked No. 20 on the DP World Tour, Hillier aims to climb into one of those top 10 spots by the season’s end.
Other Kiwi Competitors
Fellow New Zealander Kazuma Kobori improved his score with a three-under 69 in the third round, moving to 10-under for the tournament. After sharing the lead post-round one, Kobori was disappointed by a triple-bogey eight on the last hole of round two, which pushed him to one-over at that stage.
"Joint leader after round one, the 24-year-old was left to rue a triple-bogey eight on the last hole of his second round."
Both Kiwis remain in contention as the final round approaches.
Author’s summary: Daniel Hillier’s impressive third round places him within striking distance of the lead in a lucrative DP World Tour event, with a PGA Tour card at stake for 2026.