He is the only other golfer from New Zealand to win The Open Championship before Ryan Fox
· Yahoo Sports
New Zealand ace Ryan Fox has followed in the footsteps of Sir Bob Charles after winning The Open Championship.
Fox is now a major champion for the very first time in his career, having secured a one-shot victory over Cameron Young.
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Posting rounds of 72, 68, 62 and 68, he finished his hugely impressive week at Royal Birkdale on 10-under.
Fox’s compatriot Charles also clinched one major win during his career, and represents the only other player from New Zealand to win The Open Championship.
Ryan Fox emulates Sir Bob Charles by winning The Open Championship
Charles clinched his success at The Open back in 1963, although he needed a playoff to overcome American Phil Rodgers.
Taking place at Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, he emerged victorious in the last-ever 36-hole play-off at the event.
His success, helped by a sensational putting display, also meant he became the first left-handed golfer to win a major championship.
Fittingly, current champion Fox also produced a superb performance on the greens, ending the week as the Strokes Gained leader and with the most putts holed by distance.
Having worked in banking for six years before turning professional, legendary figure Charles ended his career with 76 wins.
Which nations have produced the most winners of The Open?
While there are now multiple New Zealand champions of The Open after Fox’s success at Birkdale, the nation has a long way to go to catch their rivals with the most winners.
Fittingly, with The Open having originated in Scotland, the country has produced 22 winners, ahead of England’s 13 champions.
Photo by Oisin Keniry/R&A/R&A via Getty ImagesIt is, however, the USA that has dominated the prestigious tournament since its inception, claiming 33 champions of The Open.
No other nation is in double figures since the inaugural event in 1860, but winners have emerged from 15 different countries.
Read more:Jack Nicklaus and Bryson DeChambeau react as Ryan Fox wins The Open Championship