Fresh off his historic Open Championship triumph, Ryan Fox has returned to New Zealand to celebrate with family and friends after becoming the country's first winner of golf's oldest major in more than six decades.
The 39-year-old cut short the usual post-major commitments to head home, saying it was important to share the achievement with those closest to him while the moment was still fresh.
Fox eager to celebrate with loved ones
Speaking after arriving at Auckland Airport, Fox admitted he was exhausted following an unforgettable week but was delighted to be back on home soil.
"We made kind of a little bit of a last-minute decision to come home and celebrate with friends and family while it's still fresh," Fox said.
"I'm definitely not fresh at the moment... but excited to be home."
The long journey back proved to be a welcome opportunity to unwind.
After an emotional week at Royal Birkdale, Fox enjoyed the rare chance to switch off without in-flight internet access, using the time to relax with a glass of wine and catch up on sleep before beginning a busy schedule of celebrations.
"(I will) just spend some time with mum and dad. I'll get the trophy out of the case and show it off," he said.
"And probably wouldn't mind a pie either."
Fox revealed he already has his eye on a steak, bacon jam and cheese pie from one of his favourite local bakeries.
Daughters already claiming the Claret Jug
The New Zealander also shared a light-hearted story about his two young daughters, who have quickly become attached to the famous Claret Jug.
"They think it's their trophy," he said with a smile.
"I haven't quite had the heart to break it to them that it's mine, and I've got to give it back at some point."
Fox's victory sparked celebrations across New Zealand and dominated national sports coverage, with the win marking the country's first men's major title since Michael Campbell claimed the 2005 US Open.
He also became the first New Zealander since Bob Charles in 1963 to lift the Claret Jug.
Although he hopes to squeeze in a round of golf and perhaps even some fishing while back home, Fox joked that New Zealand's winter weather may have other ideas.
"I feel like I'm going to get pulled in every direction possible over the next 10 days or so. But yeah, it's definitely nice to be home."
