American Rookie Ryggs Johnston Wins Australian Open In Stunning DP World Tour Victory
American rookie Ryggs Johnston claimed victory at the ISPS Handa Australian Open, winning by three strokes in just his second DP World Tour start. The 24-year-old finished at 18-under-par at Kingston Heath Golf Club, ahead of runner-up Curtis Luck.
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Johnston's remarkable journey included qualifying through DP World Tour Q-School on November 13th and finishing T42 at the Australian PGA Championship the following week. Despite not getting a practice round at Kingston Heath due to poor weather, he opened with a stellar 65 and followed with three consecutive 68s.
The victory was sealed with an impressive final round performance that included an eagle on the opening hole. Though briefly challenged by Luck and LIV golfer Lucas Herbert, Johnston pulled ahead with crucial birdies on the 14th and 15th holes.
The win earns Johnston a spot in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025 through the Open Qualifying Series. He becomes the 11th American to win the prestigious Stonehaven Cup, joining legends like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson.
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Australians Curtis Luck and Marc Leishman also secured spots in The Open Championship, with Leishman earning the final qualifying position through his higher world ranking after tying for third with Jasper Stubbs at 14-under.