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Stephenson holds nerve to win JGE Amateur Open by one shot
A tense final-round battle on the Earth Course saw Thomas Stephenson edge past a late charge to secure a hard-fought victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates
- PUBLISHED: Tue 17 Mar 2026, 1:28 PM
- By:
- Nick Tarratt, Guest Golf Writer
Thomas Stephenson held off a fierce late challenge to clinch a one-shot victory at the Jumeirah Golf Estates Amateur Open, sealing the title with a composed finish after his lead came under real threat on the back nine.
The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) Order of Merit qualifying tournament drew a strong field of 135 players and served as a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifier, supported by The R&A.
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The opening round on the Fire course saw Stephenson and Alexander Rushika (EGF) share the lead after posting four-under-par 68s.
Stephenson maintained his momentum with a second-round 68 to take a three-shot lead into the final day, while Rushika followed with a one-under 71 to remain in contention.
In the final round of the Earth course, Stephenson’s advantage came under pressure on the back nine. Rushika carded five birdies, while Jake Chute (JGE) made gains on holes 15 and 16 to close the gap.
Stephenson signed for a closing 74 to finish on 210, six under par, securing victory by a single stroke ahead of Rushika.
Viktor Larsson (The Els Club) finished third, with Chute in fourth place.
Dan Naudo, Club Manager at Jumeirah Golf Estates, reflected on the tournament, saying: ‘The support from the players has been overwhelming and this event would not have been as special as it was without the players’ dedication, and commitment to top-level competitive golf.’
Seven players finished at level par or better in a competitive field featuring both male and female golfers from clubs across the UAE.
In the Net Division, Nicholas Callan (Saadiyat Beach Golf Club) claimed victory with a total of 206, ten-under-par (net 68-69-69). Lewis Morgan (Jumeirah Golf Estates) finished second on 207 (net 67-73-67), while Aylan Serghini secured third place with rounds of 67-70-73, finishing at six-under-par net.
‘As always, the Agronomy Team deserves recognition for their efforts, delivering two immaculate golf courses and fantastic playing surfaces for all competitors. As a club, we are incredibly fortunate to be supported by such a strong Agronomy Team who always go above and beyond,’ said Naudo.
Naudo also praised the 2026 champion, noting Stephenson’s continued success as a loyal JGE member, 2025 Club Champion, 2024 Amateur Open Champion and JGE Scratch League Captain.
Next on the JGE calendar is the annual Club Championship, scheduled for later this month.
Results
T. Stephenson (JGE) 68-68-74 — 210 (-6 total)
A. Rushika (EGF) 68-71-72 — 211 (-5 total)
V. Larsson (The Els Club) 71-70-71 — 212 (-4 total)
