Staff WriterKipp Popert turned the Irish Open into his own personal masterclass on Monday, closing with a four-under-par 68 at The K Club to seal his 12th career G4D Tour title.
The 27-year-old Englishman began the final round seven shots adrift of Australia’s Lachlan Wood, who had looked in control after a tidy two-under 70 on Sunday.
But in the kind of blustery Kildare conditions that chew up scorecards for breakfast, Popert produced a bogey-free round sprinkled with four birdies, finishing one-over for the week and two clear of Ireland’s own Brendan Lawlor.
“It feels amazing, to play the way I did today when I wasn’t playing my best yesterday,” Popert said. “I didn’t think I’d be the winner after yesterday’s round, but my dad told me to press on yesterday. I woke up this morning and did just that.
“I was looking forward to the third hole today. I hit an eight iron there yesterday just right of the green and couldn’t find the ball. Today I was so determined to birdie it.”
A First Taste of Irish Glory
This year marked the Irish Open’s G4D return to the island for the first time since Mount Juliet in 2022, where England’s Mike Brown lifted the trophy.
Popert, now celebrating his maiden Irish win, was quick to credit Golf Ireland and Lawlor for their role in growing the game.
“Golf Ireland and what Brendan has done for the last seven years, he really is the pioneer for it, to provide more opportunities for us,” Popert said. “I am extremely grateful to them and they’re an example for golfing federations to follow.
“I couldn’t miss this week at the K Club. I remember watching Rory McIlroy hit a three-wood here and absolutely loved it. I’ve got Irish relatives who came out to watch today, so I always like Ireland.”
Battling Back from Setbacks
Popert’s victory comes after a slow start to 2025, hampered by foot surgery earlier this year.
Last season he collected four G4D titles, but recovery left him searching for form. Now, with the G4D Tour heading to Wentworth for the BMW PGA Championship, the Englishman appears ready to mount a strong finish.
“I’ve got Wentworth in a week and Q School tomorrow; I’ll try and get through four rounds there,” he said. “I had an operation at the start of the year which took me out for a long time and the foot is still a bit sore.
“Honestly, I am just enjoying golf a lot more after not being able to walk at the start of the year. This is my passion, and I want to make sure there are opportunities for the next generation.”
Final Standings
Lawlor, the home favourite, secured second place, while Wood’s early promise faded into a solo third at seven-over. England’s Thomas Blizzard finished fourth at eleven-over.
The focus now shifts to Wentworth, where Popert will chase a third career win at the G4D Tour @ BMW PGA Championship on September 8–9. Given his form at the Irish Open, few would bet against him.
