Ryan Fox was the last man standing at Royal Birkdale, and the Kiwi golfer is still pinching himself after his historic Open Championship win. The 35-year-old's triumph has sent shockwaves around the world of golf, and for good reason - it's a moment that will be etched in memory for years to come.
For too long, Fox was living in the shadow of his sporting superstars – dad Grant, the World Cup-winning All Black fly-half, and granddad Merv, the former New Zealand cricket captain. But all that changed on Sunday, when he claimed his first major title and proved that he's more than just a talented legacy. "I'm over the moon," Fox grinned, as he reflected on his incredible achievement. "It still doesn't feel real, to be honest – but I've got two Claret Jugs at home (one of which is a replica!), so it's definitely sinking in!
Unlike some sporting dynasties, Fox didn't follow the family path from birth. In fact, he dabbled in both rugby and cricket before finding his true calling on the golf course. He admits that cricket wasn't quite for him – "I'd get to 30 runs and then...out!" – but says he never felt any pressure to succeed, thanks to his parents' supportive approach.
As it turns out, Fox's dad Grant proved a valuable influence in more ways than one. The World Cup winner taught Ryan the importance of routine and mental toughness, which have served him well on the golf course. "I learned so much from watching my dad prepare for big matches," he revealed. "He'd visualise his kick, visualise himself scoring – it's similar to what I do before each shot."
And speak of spontaneity! Fox made a last-minute dash back home after winning the Open, carting the coveted Claret Jug as hand luggage on a surprise trip to Auckland. He wanted to share the news with family and friends while it was still fresh – and what a welcome he got! "It's going to be crazy, but in the best possible way," he chuckled. "Everyone will want a sip from the trophy...it'll be like a rugby tradition!"
For Fox, this victory marks not just a personal triumph, but also a chance to put his own stamp on New Zealand's rich sporting heritage. "It's a pretty cool thing for sport in NZ," he beamed. And who knows? This might just be the start of something special – Fox is now eyeing up more major titles and cementing his place among golf's elite.