Ryan Fox Seals RBC Canadian Open with Four-Hole Thriller
New Zealand’s Ryan Fox captured the spotlight at the RBC Canadian Open, outlasting Sam Burns in a gripping four-hole playoff to claim his second PGA TOUR title of the season.
Playoff Drama at TPC Toronto
The showdown unfolded at the North Course of TPC Toronto, the longest in the tournament’s 114-year history, stretching a massive 7,389 yards. After tying at 18-under, both Fox and Burns traded birdies and pars through three extra rounds. But it was Fox who delivered the knockout shot—a precise approach over water to set up a two-putt birdie on the fourth playoff hole.
A Victory Loaded with Rewards
Fox’s win wasn’t just about the trophy. He earned $1.76 million, 500 FedExCup points, and—perhaps most excitingly—a berth in the 2026 Masters. That’s a big leap from his last victory at the Myrtle Beach Classic, a lower-tier event with fewer perks.
And here’s a fun stat: Fox had +6500 odds pre-tournament. That’s what you call a high-value win.
Burns Lights It Up, Still Falls Short
Sam Burns shot a stunning 8-under 62 from well outside the final pairing. That round pushed him into the playoff, but he couldn’t match Fox’s final birdie. Despite three strong playoff efforts, his third putt on the fourth hole slipped just long, leaving Fox to close it out.
More Than Just the Winner
Kevin Yu finished just one stroke behind and snagged the top Open Championship qualifying spot among non-exempt players. Cameron Young and Matt McCarty claimed the other two slots by tying for fourth.
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, a two-time RBC Canadian Open champ, missed the cut—his first in a non-major since 2023.
Canadian Highlights
Home favorite Nick Taylor led 24 Canadians in the field, finishing T13 and picking up the Rivermead Cup for the second time in three years. Corey Conners, who won it last year, placed T27.
Final Word
From bold birdies to playoff pressure, Ryan Fox’s win at the RBC Canadian Open was pure golf theater—and it’s launched him straight into Masters territory. Not bad for a guy who started the week as a +6500 long shot.
