In a thrilling conclusion to the RBC Canadian Open held at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, New Zealand’s Ryan Fox emerged victorious, claiming his second win on the PGA Tour in just five weeks. The win was secured through a remarkable playoff performance against Sam Burns, highlighted by Fox’s exceptional 3-wood shot to within seven feet on the fourth extra hole, clinching the victory with a simple tap-in for birdie.
Previously, Fox had triumphed at the Myrtle Beach Classic, where he won a three-man playoff with an impressive chip-in. This time, facing off against Burns, Fox showcased his skills once again with a shot that many would argue was even more memorable. Burns, attempting to match Fox’s precision, pulled his own 3-wood shot 55 feet off target and ultimately missed his crucial putts.
Reflecting on the playoff, Fox noted, “To be honest, Sam and I had a bit of a pillow fight for three holes, but that shot I hit on 18, that 3-wood, was probably the best shot I’ve ever hit.” Although the subsequent putt didn’t drop, Fox was more than content with the result.
Their under-par performances saw both players end regulation at 18-under 262. Burns had previously set the bar with a birdie on the final hole, wrapping up his round with an impressive score of 62. The playoff extended over four repetitions of the 18th hole, where the PGA Tour adjusted pin positions to add a fresh challenge after the initial stages of extra play.
Burns, known for his prowess with the putter, had a near chance to clinch the tournament on the first extra hole but misjudged a crucial putt. Fox, too, had his opportunities, including a birdie putt that fell just short. The pressure of the moment seemed to get to both players until Fox’s stunning play on the final attempt secured him the title. His playoff win also catapulted him up the world rankings, moving from No. 75 to No. 32, and secured his spot in the upcoming U.S. Open.
Kevin Yu finished third in the competition after nearly making it into the playoff with his strong showing. Although just missing out on a direct U.S. Open berth, Yu, along with Cameron Young and Matt McCarty, secured their spots in the upcoming British Open.
Fox, who had already guaranteed his British Open appearance with his 2023 win at the BMW PGA Championship, now boasts an impressive catalog of eight worldwide victories, including his achievements across the PGA Tour, the European Tour, and the PGA Tour of Australasia.
For Burns, the outcome was another narrowly missed chance to end a victory drought extending over two years, dating back to his triumph at the World Golf Championships-Match Play in 2023. Meanwhile, Cameron Young wowed spectators with his round, finishing tied for fourth. His spectacular par save at the 17th hole had kept him in the title chase, but a challenging final hole where his 3-wood blasted unexpectedly over the green into the trees dashed his hopes.
Young expressed his frustration after the tournament, commenting on the unpredictable nature of his plays. Despite hitting what he considered perfect shots on the last hole, nature had other plans, pushing his ball into a near-impossible recovery position.