Ryggs Johnston wins Australian Open for first title. Jiyai Shin wins women's event
Unheralded American Ryggs Johnston has won his first professional title by claiming the Australian Open by three stokes, while South Korea’s Jiyai Shin claimed her second Women’s Australian Open which was played concurrently at two courses on the famed Melbourne sand belt
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Unheralded American Ryggs Johnston won his first professional title by claiming the Australian Open by three stokes, while South Korea’s Jiyai Shin claimed her second Women’s Australian Open, which was played concurrently at two courses on the famed Melbourne sand belt.
Johnston shot a 68 on Sunday to finish at 18-under 269 and three clear of Australian Curtis Luck (68), who had briefly taken the lead on the final stretch at Kingston Heath.
The 24-year-old Montana native, with a world ranking of No. 953, is the first American to win the Stonehaven Cup since Jordan Spieth won it for a second time in 2016. Other former winners include Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.
“It’s just really cool to be in group that’s with those guys,” Johnston said. “And I’m just pretty honoured to be able to put my name on it now, and I’ll cherish this moment forever.”
