Ryggs Johnston Wins ISPS Handa Australian Open
American rookie Ryggs Johnston claimed his first professional title with a three-shot victory at the ISPS Handa Australian Open. The 24-year-old finished 18 under par at Kingston Heath Golf Club, becoming the 11th American to win the prestigious Stonehaven Cup.
Johnston entered the final round tied for the lead with Australian Lucas Herbert but pulled ahead with a steady performance. Herbert struggled on the back nine, while Curtis Luck, another Australian, emerged as Johnston’s closest competitor.
Johnston’s journey to victory was remarkable, as he had only recently turned professional. He earned his DP World Tour card through Q-School on November 13 and finished 42nd in his pro debut at the Australian PGA Championship the following week. Bad weather leading up to the tournament meant Johnston didn’t get to practice at Kingston Heath, playing the course for the first time during Thursday’s opening round.
Ryggs Johnston Wins ISPS Handa Australia
Despite the challenges, Johnston started the tournament strongly with an impressive 65, followed by three consecutive rounds of 68. Reflecting on his win, Johnston admitted he didn’t expect much heading into the event due to fatigue and limited preparation. He noted that having no expectations may have helped him perform better under pressure.
Johnston’s final round began with a bang, as he eagled the first hole and birdied the third. Although three bogeys before the turn narrowed his lead, he held his ground with key birdies on the 14th and 15th holes. Luck briefly took the lead on the back nine but faltered with two late bogeys, allowing Johnston to secure the win comfortably.
This victory also earned Johnston a spot in the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush, thanks to the Open Qualifying Series. He joins a list of legendary American golfers, including Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, who have also won the Australian Open.
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Australians Curtis Luck and Marc Leishman also earned places in the 2025 Open. Luck finished second, while Leishman tied for third alongside compatriot Jasper Stubbs. Although Stubbs and Leishman shared the same score, Leishman secured the final Open spot due to his higher world ranking.
