The 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship kicked off with an electrifying first round, as Ryder Cup stalwarts Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry showcased their prowess, sharing the lead with a stellar eight under par. The duo, paired together for the opening day, were joined by New Zealand’s Kazuma Kobori, South Africa’s Richard Sterne, and France’s Adrien Saddier in a five-way tie at the top. Fleetwood delivered a flawless round with eight birdies, while Lowry impressed with nine birdies and a single bogey. Saddier briefly surged to nine under but dropped back after a bogey on the 17th. Sterne, a former runner-up in this event, dazzled with two eagles, including a remarkable 75-foot putt on the 18th. Kobori also shone with an eagle and six birdies in a bogey-free round. Off the course, the tournament’s schools program introduced over 1,000 children to golf, while The R&A’s Golf in the Community Forum highlighted the sport’s growing impact in the region, focusing on inclusivity, health, and youth engagement. The event continues to blend world-class competition with initiatives to grow the game globally.