Toronto, Canada — Ryan Fox secured his spot at the U.S. Open after a dramatic four-hole playoff against Sam Burns at the RBC Canadian Open on Sunday. This victory, marking Fox’s second win of the season, solidifies his rising profile in the world of golf.
The playoff concluded on the par-5 18th hole, where Fox, after striking an impressive second shot that landed just beyond the pin, converted a two-putt birdie to clinch the triumph. In contrast, Burns struggled with a three-putt after reaching the green in two, ultimately surrendering the match to Fox.
Reflecting on the match, Fox described his experience with Burns as a “pillow fight” for the first three playoff holes. He admitted that both players struggled with their putting initially but credited his decisive shot on the final hole as one of the best he’s ever executed.
Burns started the day strong, despite beginning well behind the leaders. He recorded an impressive 8-under 62, his best closing round on tour. His back nine was particularly remarkable, featuring five consecutive birdies that allowed him to take the clubhouse lead, but he faced the anxiety of waiting as competitors sought to surpass his score.
Cameron Young came close to overtaking Burns but faltered on the final hole, making a bogey after his approach shot went awry. Meanwhile, Fox, gaining momentum, sank a crucial 17-foot birdie putt on his last hole of regulation, forcing the playoff against Burns.
After enduring the tension of the playoff, Fox completed the tournament with back-to-back birdies late in regulation and now boasts two professional wins this year. He previously triumphed at the OneFlight Myrtle Beach Classic and also has eight international victories, including a title at the 2023 BMW PGA Championship.
The RBC Canadian Open had a purse of $9.8 million, a significant amount but still only half of what top PGA Tour events typically offer. Fox’s victory not only earns him a place in the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club but also a substantial payday of $1.76 million, which will elevate him in the Official World Golf Rankings to No. 32.
In terms of financial outcomes, the tournament had both exciting gameplay and significant implications for player earnings. Fox’s win contributes noticeably to his growing stature on tour, while Burns’ impressive final round and subsequent second-place finish highlighted his own potential.
The final leaderboard saw Kevin Yu finish third at 17-under par, while Young and Matt McCarty tied for fourth at 16-under, illustrating the highly competitive nature of this year’s event.
