South Africa Golf "Why Are They So Strong?"

'Traditional Powerhouse' Producing Players and Els, Over 490 Golf Courses with 'Top Infrastructure', Sunshine Tour 'Rich in Practical Experience'

Ashley Buhai showcased 'South African power' by winning the final major of the year, the AIG Women's Open.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] This year marks the dominance of South African golfers.

Ashley Bouchard claimed her first career victory on the 8th at the final major of the 2022 LPGA Tour season, the AIG Women's Open. In the LIV Golf Series, backed by Saudi Arabia's 'oil money,' Charl Schwartzel became the inaugural champion in the first event, and Brandon Grace topped the second event. On the DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour), Tristan Lawrence and Shaun Norris are among the South African winners.

South Africa has many outstanding golfers. Gary Player, known as the 'Black Panther of South Africa,' is a representative figure. He is the third in global history to achieve the 'Career Grand Slam' by winning all four major championships. He is the only non-American to be a 'Career Grand Slammer.' 'Big Easy' Ernie Els is also notable, having amassed 19 PGA Tour wins, 28 DP World Tour wins, and a total of 71 victories worldwide. Louis Oosthuizen won The Open Championship in 2010.

The secret to South Africa's status as a golf powerhouse lies in its infrastructure. It is a golfer's paradise, boasting approximately 490 golf courses. It is an ideal place to play golf, with golf courses lined up near homes. The cost of living is relatively reasonable, and green fees are affordable, allowing players to play rounds without financial burden. Coupled with perfect climate conditions, it is the best environment for players to hone their skills. Players consider the grass on South African golf courses to be the best, similar to the turf in the United States and Europe. Golf courses are built to international standards, and tournament courses are abundant.

In 1971, South Africa established the Sunshine Tour for male professional players. About 20 tournaments are held annually. Players such as Gary Player, Nick Price (born in South Africa but currently a Zimbabwean national), Ernie Els, Trevor Immelman, Charl Schwartzel, and Brandon Grace have been champions of this tour. The conditions allow players to participate in many tournaments, which is advantageous for gaining practical experience. Many South African players have traditional swings. These players are nurturing juniors at academies, continuously producing excellent players.