Ex-Gang Member Ryan Peake Competes at 2025 Open After Five-Year Prison Sentence

Australian golfer Ryan Peake, a former member of the notorious Rebels motorcycle gang, spent five years in prison for a brutal assault that left the victim with a fractured skull and broken arms. The incident, which Peake says escalated from a confrontation over threats made against his gang, occurred when he was 19 and led to his incarceration in harsh conditions at Hakea Prison. Despite his troubled past and disillusionment with golf that led to his gang involvement, Peake has turned his life around and qualified for the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush, marking his major tournament debut. Peake's journey from a violent past to professional golf has drawn widespread attention and support, including from longtime friend and former world No. 1 Cam Smith, who highlighted Peake's talent and resilience. Peake's story is one of redemption and rehabilitation, showing how he overcame addiction and mental health struggles to compete at one of golf's most prestigious events. His transformation from a convict to a contender at The Open symbolizes hope and second chances in sport and life.