Ryggs Johnston wins Australian Open in second DP World Tour start

Ryggs Johnston won on only his second DP World Tour start as he captured the ISPS HANDA Australian Open in impressive fashion.

The 24-year-old American, who is named after Mel Gibson's character from the Lethal Weapon movies, carded a closing 68 at Kingston Heath near Melbourne to finish on 18 under par, three shots clear of home favourite Curtis Luck.

Victory completed a remarkable rise for Montana native Johnston, who came through Qualifying School last month and finished tied 42nd on his tour debut a week ago.

Asked whether he thought a win was on the cards this week, Johnston – who started the week ranked 953rd in the world – said: "To be honest probably not.

"I turned up pretty tired from all the travel and Q-School and everything. Didn’t get a practice round here with the weather. I didn’t really have any expectations, which probably helped me in the end.

"It feels great, just knowing that (it brings) more playing opportunities and getting into bigger events. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet but it’s an amazing feeling."

Johnston began the day in a share of the lead with Lucas Herbert but quickly took control of proceedings with an eagle from the fringe at the opening hole.

Despite three bogeys on the front nine seeing him caught by Herbert and Luck at the turn, a superb approach to six feet at the 10th and a 30-foot birdie on the 15th saw Johnston close out the win.

Johnston, Luck and Marc Leishman took the three Open Championship berths on offer for next year’s event at Royal Portrush.

Ireland's Gary Hurley missed the cut on Friday.