Schauffele wins The Open at Royal Troon
It means a clean sweep of the majors for Americans for the first time in 42 years
Last updated 21st Jul 2024
Xander Schauffele claimed his second major of the year and his first Open Championship on a dramatic day of golf at Royal Troon.
The American PGA champion held aloft the much-coveted Claret Jug after his flawless round of 65 was enough to claim victory at nine under par as others faltered.
Overnight leader Billy Horschel couldn’t find a repeat of the touch that launched him to the top of the leaderboard during a wet and windy third round on Saturday and finished tied second after a two-under-par closing round.
South African Thriston Lawrence did have the outright lead going down the 10th and 11th holes but a dropped shot on 12 opened the door for Schauffele who didn’t look back as he coasted to his win.
The man from San Diego – who will defend his Olympic gold medal in Paris later this month – admitted afterwards it was a dream come true to lift the famous old trophy.
He said: "I feel very honoured. Hearing your name called with "Open Champion" right after is something I've dreamt of for a very long time.
I'd like to thank Royal Troon for hosting. I was only able to watch the 2016 -- actually watched the highlight of Phil and Henrik to motivate myself for this week. I guess that paid off pretty nice."
Schauffele’s victory is the first time since 1982 that men from the United States have won all four majors in a calendar year.
And he went on the praise the Scottish crowds.
He added: "Last but not least, I've been in Scotland for two weeks now.
The fans -- you guys have been amazing. You guys have made it feel like a second home for me, and I can't wait to come back."
Halfway leader Shane Lowry couldn’t recover from a dismal third-round 77 but did give Irish fans something to cheer when he canned a mammoth put on the 17th to finish sixth.
Championship organisers, The R&A, confirmed the event was attended by 258,174 people, reportedly bringing millions to the local economy.
Departing R&A CEO Martin Slumbers said: "We look forward to seeing you at Royal Portrush next year for the 153rd Open."