In a thrilling conclusion to the ISPS HANDA Senior Open at Gleneagles, Jerry Kelly emerged victorious, claiming his third PGA Tour Champions major title by a two-stroke margin. Kelly, a two-time Senior Players Championship winner, sealed his win with a birdie on the final hole, recovering from a greenside bunker to finish 10 under par. His final round consisted of a two-under 68, with three birdies on the front nine and bogeys at the sixth and 11th holes.
The 59-year-old's triumph earns him a coveted spot at the 155th Open at St Andrews next year. Kelly expressed his elation, stating, 'The senior Claret Jug is the most coveted trophy for an over-50 golfer, and to win it in Scotland, the home of golf, is truly speechless.' Meanwhile, Cameron Percy, who shared the 54-hole lead with Kelly, struggled to break 70 over the weekend, ultimately sharing second place with Darren Fichardt and Matt Gogel. Scotland's Stephen Gallacher delivered an impressive performance, carding an eight-under 62 to finish fifth and claim the round of the day. Gallacher's outstanding display included five birdies on the front nine, gains at the 10th and 11th, and a final birdie after a brief setback at the 12th.
With this win, Kelly joins an elite group of golfers, including Stewart Cink and Padraig Harrington, who have claimed major titles in the PGA Tour Champions season.