Southport (United Kingdom) (AFP) – New Zealander Ryan Fox said winning the British Open was "more than a dream come true" after a birdie at the final hole claimed his first major at 10 under par on Sunday.
Issued on: 19/07/2026 - 20:20Modified: 19/07/2026 - 20:58
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The world number 56 produced a two-under-par 68 on the final day to pip American Cameron Young to the Claret Jug by one shot.Tied for 52nd after playing the first two rounds in level par, Fox produced the largest 36-hole comeback by position ever to win a men's major.Son of former All Black rugby union international Grant Fox, the 39-year-old equalled the all-time record low score of 62 for a major round on Saturday to set up his shot at history.As the other overnight contenders faltered on a thrilling final day at Royal Birkdale, Fox produced his best under extreme pressure with birdies at 13, 14, 16 and 18 to claim, by a distance, the biggest win of his career."It's still surreal to be honest. To have my name in golf history and to be called the champion golfer of the year is more than a dream come true," said Fox."I spoke to my kids last night and they said 'bring back a trophy'. I think this is a pretty cool one to bring back for them."He becomes just the third man from New Zealand to win a major after Bob Charles at the 1964 British Open and Michael Campbell at the US Open in 2005.
