Portumna's Sam Murphy made a triumphant return to the golf course, capturing the win at the Alps Tour's season-opening Ein Bay Open in Egypt, marking a stellar start to his professional career. At just 23, Murphy's journey has been anything but smooth, dealing with multiple injuries and six surgeries during his college years at Grand Canyon University in Arizona. But his perseverance paid off in a big way.
Murphy began the final round with a two-shot lead over Castle’s Robert Moran and France’s Alexandre Vandermoten. It all came down to a nail-biting finish at the 18th hole, where Murphy showcased his nerves of steel. Despite a couple of bogeys on the back nine that tightened the race, he managed a brilliant up-and-down to secure the victory by two shots, finishing 11-under at the Sokhna Golf Club.
Reflecting on the win, Murphy said, “This is the perfect way to kick off my season and professional journey. Considering the obstacles I've faced over the past few years, this victory is incredibly meaningful.” His performance included three birdies and a series of pars that extended his lead before the tense final stretch.
Murphy had hoped to extend his college career at Little Rock University, but when visa issues closed that door, he turned to the Alps Tour. And what a decision that turned out to be.
“I hadn’t won in years, which makes this victory even sweeter,” he shared, pocketing a €6,200 prize. “The competition here is fierce, so coming out on top is thrilling.”
The final moments were intense. “I was surprisingly calm throughout the tournament,” Murphy noted.
“Playing with Rob, who’s a good friend, was great, though things got tense as the wind picked up. The last putt was nerve-wracking, but these are the moments you train for.”
Murphy's approach on the 18th narrowly avoided disaster, landing just short of the water. “Luck was on my side, but I still had to execute the shot to win. It’s one of my best up-and-downs ever,” he said.
Robert Moran, meanwhile, put on a strong performance, closing the gap with four birdies on the back nine. Although he finished two shots behind after a bogey on the last hole, Moran was upbeat about his start to the season.
“It was a rollercoaster for me, but finishing second is a solid start,” he remarked. “Playing alongside Sam, I focused on my game and supported him.
His chip on the last was outstanding.”
Royal Dublin’s Hugh Foley also had a respectable showing, tying for 26th at one under.
The players are set to return to the Sokhna Golf Club for the 2026 Red Sea Little Venice Open, promising more exciting golf action ahead.