Unheralded American Ryggs Johnston claimed his first professional title by winning the Australian Open by three strokes. The tournament was played concurrently with the Women's Australian Open at two courses on the Melbourne sand belt.
Johnston finished at 18-under 269 after shooting a 68 on Sunday, securing a three-stroke victory over Australian Curtis Luck. The 24-year-old Montana native, ranked 953rd in the world, became the first American to win the Stonehaven Cup since Jordan Spieth in 2016.
Other former winners of the prestigious cup include golf legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player. Johnston expressed his honor at joining such esteemed company and cherished the moment of putting his name on the cup.
South Korea's Jiyai Shin claimed her second Women's Australian Open title with a 17-under-par 274 total, winning by two shots over Ashleigh Buhai. Shin, a former world No.1, held off a late challenge from Buhai to secure her 65th professional title.
Both tournaments were played at Kingston Heath and Victoria Golf Club, with alternating tee times and equal prize money for the second consecutive year. Kingston Heath, set to host the 2028 Presidents Cup, saw Johnston and Shin emerge victorious in their respective events.
Notable performances included Marc Leishman and Jasper Stubbs tying for third in the men's event, while defending men's champion Joaquin Niemann finished tied for sixth. In the women's event, amateur Hyojin Yang finished third, and LPGA Tour regular Minjee Lee tied for seventh.
The tournaments showcased thrilling competition and memorable moments, with Johnston and Shin etching their names in Australian Open history with impressive victories.
