Ryan Fox has been crowned the Open Champion, adding a glorious chapter to his family’s sporting dynasty. The 39-year-old New Zealander displayed nerves of steel on a dramatic Sunday at Royal Birkdale, sinking a clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole to edge out American Cameron Young. Fox’s victory not only secures the Claret Jug but also cements his legacy alongside his father, rugby legend Grant Fox, and grandfather, cricket captain Walter Hadlee.
How Ryan Fox Sealed the Open Championship
Fox entered the final hole tied with Young at nine under par. While Young had finished his round more than two hours earlier, Fox kept his composure under intense pressure. He smashed a 330-yard drive down the fairway, then flicked an iron to 11 feet and calmly rolled in the birdie putt. The crowd erupted as Fox raised his arms in triumph, knowing he had just won golf’s oldest major.
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The Decisive Moment at the 18th
Young, who had been in the clubhouse with a total of nine under, watched helplessly as Fox’s birdie snatched victory. The American had a chance to force a playoff but found a bunker off the tee and could only manage a bogey five. For Young, it was another near miss in a major championship, while Fox became the first New Zealander to win the Open since Bob Charles in 1963.
| Player | Final Score | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Fox | -10 (66) | Birdie on 18th hole |
| Cameron Young | -9 (67) | Bogey on 18th hole |
| Sam Burns | -8 (68) | Wobbled after early lead |
Family Legacy and Grit
Fox’s victory is a story of heritage and resilience. His father, Grant Fox, was a legendary All Blacks fly-half, while his grandfather, Walter Hadlee, captained the New Zealand cricket team. Three generations, three sports, one Claret Jug. Fox displayed the same fortitude that made his father a rugby icon, laughing in the face of adversity as others wilted under the Birkdale heat.
Key Takeaways from Fox’s Win
- Clutch putting: Fox holed a crucial 11-foot birdie on the 72nd hole.
- Driving distance: His 330-yard tee shot on 18 set up the winning moment.
- Mental toughness: Fox recovered from a tough break on the par-3 15th, escaping with a bogey.
- Historic achievement: First New Zealander to win the Open in over 60 years.
The Battle Behind the Scenes
The championship was not without controversy. Bryson DeChambeau’s rules breach dominated early headlines, but Fox’s bold play shifted the focus back to the golf. Sam Burns, the 54-hole leader, started strong at 11 under but regressed to eight under at the turn. Fox, meanwhile, dealt best with the scorched-earth conditions, carding a final-round 66 to seal the win.
FAQ
Who won the Open Championship in 2025?
Ryan Fox of New Zealand won the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, finishing at 10 under par after a birdie on the 18th hole.
How did Ryan Fox win the Open?
Fox holed an 11-foot birdie putt on the final hole to edge out Cameron Young by one stroke. He drove the ball 330 yards and showed remarkable composure under pressure.
What is Ryan Fox’s family connection to sports?
Fox’s father, Grant Fox, was a rugby legend for the All Blacks, and his grandfather, Walter Hadlee, captained the New Zealand cricket team. Fox is the first to win the Claret Jug in the family.
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