Hidalgo Triumphs Over Rahm in Thrilling Spanish Open Play-Off

ABC News reported that Spain's Angel Hidalgo clinched his first DP World Tour title at the Spanish Open in Madrid by defeating compatriot Jon Rahm in a play-off. Hidalgo (26) edged out Rahm after sinking a birdie putt on the second extra hole, overcoming a missed birdie chance on the 18th in regulation play. Previously, he led since Thursday and finished Sunday’s round with a modest one-under-par 70.

Hidalgo described the experience as "Insane, absolutely insane," adding that he remained composed throughout the day despite missing a short putt on hole 72. When the playoff commenced back on the 18th hole, Rahm initially went over the green with his drive but managed a close chip and birdie putt. This time, Hidalgo did not falter in his birdie attempt.

On their return to the 18th, Hidalgo barely missed the green while Rahm aimed left. Rahm's ineffective chip sent the ball over the green, contrasting with Hidalgo’s accurate positioning and victorious putt.

Reflecting on his journey, Hidalgo recalled, "Two or three years ago, I was in the first tee, in the trees, supporting Jon without playing, just coming to Madrid to see the tournament. To be here and win is unreal."

Hidalgo had never finished in the top three in his prior 79 European tour events. He entered the final round with a two-shot lead over Rahm, finishing with a 1-under 70, culminating in a victory total of 14-under 270, despite three bogeys within the first six holes.

This year's Spanish Open final marked the first all-Spanish group since 2019, where Rahm had defeated Rafa Cabrriero Bello and Samuel Del Val. Rahm, a former world No. 1, added a 3-under 68 with seven birdies to his record, but also had two bogeys and a double bogey.

Trailing by five shots before Saturday, Rahm's late arrival in Madrid was due to the birth of his third child. Rahm recently won the LIV individual title and returned to Europe aiming to meet the minimum of four tour starts required for Ryder Cup eligibility, pending appeal after he played the LIV circuit.

Elsewhere, Tommy Fleetwood’s 66, his best round of the week, resulted in a third-place tie. Fleetwood commented on his performance, acknowledging, "I played very well…It’s been a good week, so don’t overlook that." Patrick Reed and Tyrrell Hatton both finished tied for 10th, each experiencing mixed fortunes in their rounds, while Shane Lowry ended in a 13th-place tie after a 69 that included a double bogey.

Earlier, SSP wrote that England cricket board will introduce gender equal salaries in 2025.