Sepp Straka and Maximilian Steinlechner delight home fans

Sepp Straka and Maximilian Steinlechner gave plenty of hope of a home winner after brilliant performances at the 2026 Austrian Alpine Open presented by Kitzbühel Tirol.

Team Europe Ryder Cup star Straka was making his debut at Golfclub Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith and finished in a share of 12th, six shots behind winner Kota Kaneko.

Steinlechner, the 26-year-old local favourite, was two shots better at 14 under and the fans were delighted after the home duo were paired together.

Bernd Wiesberger was a third Austrian to be in contention, finishing in a tie of fourth, at 15 under, with the latter two sharing the lead at during the final round.

"It was pretty (much) a lot of the stuff that I've kind of had all year," Straka said. "It's a little inconsistency across the whole game. The putter is a little weak, but, overall I played a pretty good week.

"I really struck the ball pretty well three of the four days and, yeah, overall I'm pretty happy with it.

"Yeah, it was incredible. I really thought I was going to get him (Steinlechner) yesterday, we just missed each other and then was able to play with him today. I'd never played with him, very impressive golfer. It was fun to watch him.

"He put himself in a position where he could have a chance at the tournament and played some incredible golf, and it was a great time out there.

"I guess I kind of pay attention with the media and stuff. My dad still spends all summer here and we come back every couple times a year, once or twice a year and it's awesome.

I feel like the golf, the sport of golf, has gotten a lot more popular over the last 10 or so years and it's very special to see."

For Steinlechner, he was thrilled with the experience at his national Open.

"It was very special playing with Sepp on Sunday," he said. "The weather was good. Lots of big crowds and played well too, so I mean, it's very special. I probably won't forget this tournament any time soon.

"I feel like I just tried to have fun with my caddie, Steve, and I'm sure you saw me laugh a few times on the course.

"We had a good time and then I was able to roll in a few putts, which is always fun, and I certainly enjoyed it.

"I knew people were coming because the weather's good and it's big tournament at home, but I was never expecting that many people.

"And then being paired together with Sepp on Sunday, weather's good, and it's just awesome. I just really enjoy playing in front of the home crowd. They're very appreciative of the sport and it's just very enjoyable."