The Open 2026: How fast Fox trumped divisive DeChambeau to win at Royal Birkdale
Ryan Fox won the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale, finishing with a decisive putt shortly after Sam Burns concluded his round. The tournament was also noted for the controversial performance of Bryson DeChambeau, who faced a penalty for rule violations.
Why it matters
The event highlights the ongoing tension in professional golf between traditional pace-of-play standards and the behavior of high-profile, modern players.
Figure caption, 'What a way to take it' - best of Fox's Open winning final round
Golf correspondent at Royal Birkdale Published 20 July 2026, 11:12 BST Updated 11:23 BST Commentating on the thrilling climax of this year's Open, there was barely a moment to describe the biggest putt of Ryan Fox's life because he struck it so quickly.
There were only 22 seconds between Sam Burns completing his final round and Fox stroking home the 11-footer on Royal Birkdale's 18th green. The putt made him champion golfer of the year.
It provided a magnificent and wholesome climax to the 154th Open, a dramatic championship marked by class and controversy.
Bryson DeChambeau's two-shot penalty for trampling rough that improved the line of his swing path last Friday will not be forgotten. It was another incident that illustrated why he has become golf's most divisive figure.
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