Fox Holds Nerve to Claim Claret Jug
Ryan Fox of New Zealand secured his first Major title by winning The 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on Sunday. The 39-year-old holed a 12-foot putt on the 18th green to birdie the final hole and finish at 10-under par, one stroke ahead of American Cameron Young. Fox kissed the famous Claret Jug as he celebrated his victory in Southport, Merseyside.
Fleetwood's Heartbreak Continues
Local favourite Tommy Fleetwood saw his hopes of winning a Major on home soil dashed once again. The 35-year-old reached eight under par but suffered three consecutive bogeys from the ninth hole. He finished at seven under par, one shot behind Young. Fleetwood carded rounds of 69, 67, 69, and 68, but it was not enough to end his wait for Major glory.
McIlroy Fails to Mount Challenge
Rory McIlroy's final round was a mixed bag, with four birdies, three bogeys, and a double bogey for a 71. The Northern Irishman ended the tournament at one under par, well off the lead.
Record Attendance at Royal Birkdale
The championship attracted thousands of spectators from around the world, including the United States, Australia, and other countries. The event was predicted to welcome over 300,000 attendees across the week. The tournament began on Thursday, July 16, following practice days from Sunday, July 12.
Despite not winning, Fleetwood received immense support from the home crowd. Many fans expressed their admiration for the Southport native, who remains a popular figure in the sport.
The ECHO team spoke to visitors from all over the globe, some celebrating milestones such as birthdays. There was widespread praise for the organisation and workers at the event. Last year's champion Scottie Scheffler also completed his final round.
