MELBOURNE: New Zealand golfer Daniel Hillier will return to Melbourne for the 2026 Australian Open looking to become the first New Zealander to win the championship.
The 28-year-old is entering the tournament after a strong 2026 season that included his first New Zealand Open victory at Millbrook Resort.
Hillier also produced an impressive result at last year’s Australian Open, finishing tied sixth at Royal Melbourne.His record in Australia has added interest to his return to Kingston Heath, where the 2026 championship will be played from December 3–6.
Hillier has already won on the DP World Tour, claiming the 2023 British Masters, and his New Zealand Open victory has added another significant achievement to his professional career.
The New Zealander will face a strong international field in Melbourne, including major champions Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott and Cameron Smith.
Canadian international Corey Conners and Spanish golfer Josele Ballester are also among the announced players, alongside Australian contenders such as Cam Davis, Lucas Herbert and Elvis Smylie.Hillier’s challenge is particularly significant for New Zealand golf because no player from the country has previously won the men’s Australian Open.
The tournament will once again bring together leading Australian and international players at one of Melbourne’s best-known Sand belt venues.Hillier’s previous top-six finish means he already has experience of performing strongly in the championship.
His 2026 New Zealand Open victory could provide additional confidence when he returns to Melbourne.The Australian Open will be played at Kingston Heath Golf Club from December 3–6 and is supported by the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria.
Reported By: Mirza Maqbool I Sports Reporter I Melbourne
