The 32-year-old, who has enjoyed five wins as a professional, dearly wants to add his own national open championship on 27 February to 1 March 202 at Millbrook Resort and The Hills near Queenstown.

“It is probably the one tournament I would love to win more than any other and get my name on the Brodie Breeze Trophy,” said Fox who has recently returned from his year competing on the European Tour.

“It remains one of the most important tournaments in my year and one I look forward to greatly, especially returning to Queenstown and playing those great courses.”

He added his first European Tour title this year, finishing the year in 57^th place on the rankings and amassing more than NZ$1.1million for 2019, including taking several weeks off golf following his marriage.

New Zealand Open Tournament Director Michael Glading said he is delighted that Fox will again headline the homegrown players.

“Ryan has been a wonderful supporter of the New Zealand Open. We are very aware that Ryan is in demand around the world and one of the sport’s most exciting players to watch.

“Therefore, we are indebted to him that he continues to support the event. And given we have just announced free entry for the 2020 New Zealand Open, I am sure a significant number of sports fans will want to attend to watch Ryan in action.”

Fox will be paired with cricket legend Shane Warne in the pro-am tournament (which pairs professionals and amateur players), after the duo played together in the Dunhill Links European Tour event in Scotland this year.

The New Zealand Open is co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and the Asian Tour, and in partnership with the Japan Tour.