Rory McIlroy admits he lost patience as Rai sets the pace in Abu Dhabi

Shane Lowry lies eighth after round 3, with McIlroy in a share of 12th.

Rory McIlroy reacts after missing a putt on the 7th green during the third round of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

Despite a flying start, Rory McIlroy admitted he struggled to stay patient as England's Aaron Rai set the pace at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. 

Rai heads into the final round with a one-shot lead but will have two-time former champion Tommy Fleetwood and Nicolai Hojgaard breathing down his neck.