Doncaster-born golfer Jack Whaley defeated American Jay Leng Jr in a grueling 36-hole final at Merion Golf Club to win the US Amateur Championship, securing his place at The Open next year. The 4&3 victory also earns Whaley spots at The Masters and the US Open. Whaley, ranked 90th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, became only the third Englishman to win the tournament, following Matt Fitzpatrick in 2013 and Harold Hilton in 1911.

After an emotional final hole where he sank a 20ft birdie putt, Whaley embraced his parents and caddie. "My dad has helped me so much this week," Whaley said. "It's just a huge honor to be able to experience this with my dad." The Florida State University student hopes his performance will earn him a Walker Cup captain's pick from Dean Robertson for this September's tournament.