Dylan Naidoo first golfer of colour to clinch SA Open

Dylan Naidoo etched his name in the history books on Sunday as he became the first South African golfer of colour to win the prestigious South African Open.

His victory at the iconic Durban Country Club not only secured him a place among the country’s golfing greats but also marked a milestone moment in the sport.

The tournament, shortened to 54 holes due to a waterlogged course, saw Naidoo tied at 14-under-par with England’s Laurie Canter, forcing a dramatic playoff on the 18th hole. Under immense pressure, Naidoo delivered a clutch birdie to claim the title, sealing a fairytale triumph that will be remembered for years to come.

The win has catapulted Naidoo’s career to new heights. He not only secured a DP World Tour card but also claimed one of three coveted spots for The Open Championship at Royal Portrush this July.

“I felt like I had nothing to lose in the playoff. I just wanted to go out there, have fun, and do it,” an elated Naidoo said after his victory. “To have my name on the SA Open trophy is unbelievable. It’s like a dream come true.”

His success is as a result of  years of hard work and perseverance. A product of the GolfRSA development system, the Johannesburg-born golfer steadily climbed the ranks, competing on smaller tours before breaking through in spectacular fashion.

One of the most touching moments of the day came when Naidoo’s father, who had initially left for the airport, rushed back just in time to see his son make history.

“My dad and I have been through it all, and I couldn’t think of someone more special to share this with,” Naidoo said. “It’s just been the best day ever. I mean, I’m on the DP World Tour! That’s outrageous. I’m going to be playing around the world against some of the best players in the world. And I’m playing in The Open. It’s a dream,” Naidoo was quoted as saying. 

Naidoo’s triumph at Durban Country Club, a venue steeped in history, has great relevance in the history of  South African golf. 

Sewsunker “Papwa” Sewgolum, in 1963, won the Natal Open and had to receive his prize outside in the rain after he wasn’t allowed in the then “whites-only” Durban County Club clubhouse. 

Almost 62 years later at the very same venue where Sewgolum was treated as a second-class citizen, another golfer of colour stood tall in the KwaZulu-Natal rain. But this time it was with the SA Open in hand and he was free to have a hot meal and a hot shower to celebrate his victory.