Kopp’s success is particularly remarkable: the Tyrolean had actually ended his professional career in 2022. However, when he learned that the Schön Clinics were hosting a wildcard event for the Austrian Alpine Open less than 40 minutes from his home, he signed up immediately - as the very first participant.
“I’m absolutely thrilled with my result today. Since I’ve hardly played any golf myself over the past few years, I’m honestly speechless. I was actually considering withdrawing from this qualification because I barely had any time to practice, and today also happens to be our wedding anniversary. I guess the date brought me that extra bit of luck,” said Alexander Kopp happily.
Kopp’s round, however, started far from ideal. He recorded bogeys on each of the first two holes. But after that, the 33-year-old found his rhythm, carding eight birdies and eventually securing victory with a safe par finish, one stroke ahead of Lenny Koch and Felix Schöffthaler.
Christopher Schön, who made the wildcard tournament possible through the commitment of the Schön Clinics, also competed himself and achieved a sensational tied fourth place finish.
With Alexander Kopp, the 13th Austrian has now qualified for the Austrian Alpine Open, joining Sepp Straka, Bernd Wiesberger, Maximilian Steinlechner, Lukas Nemecz, Niklas Regner, Christoph Bleier, Matthias Schwab, Timon Baltl, Lukas Boandl, David Ennsmann, Tim Hofmann, and Jakob Lotschak.
The only tournament of this category in Austria will take place from 28 to 31 May and will bring the DP World Tour to Kitzbühel next week.
For more information about the Kitzbühel destination, please visit kitzbuehel.com.
