Norris made an impressive surge up the leaderboard, sparked by an eagle on the second hole. He finished with a superb final round of five-under-par 67, setting the clubhouse lead at 13-under-par, tied with several other contenders at the time.

However, as the final holes unfolded, it became a two-man battle between Norris and fellow South African Ryan van Velzen. Preparing for a potential playoff, Norris warmed up on the driving range while Van Velzen stood on the 18th tee tied for the lead. The pressure proved decisive as Van Velzen’s approach found the water surrounding the challenging 18th green, resulting in a bogey.

An elated Norris said winning his second DP World Tour title was unbelievable.

“Words can’t describe the feelings going through me at the moment. I’m over the moon,” said Norris.

“I didn’t even realise I’d shot 67 until I made the last putt. I was so focused on each shot and staying in the moment. In the end, it all came together perfectly.”

Van Velzen closed with a 72, finishing in a tie for second place alongside England’s John Parry and Sweden’s Marcus Kinhult, all one stroke behind Norris at 12-under-par.

Shaun Norris. Photo: Sunshine Tour

Norris entered the final round with a clear strategy. Before teeing off, he told his brother and caddie, Kyle, that staying under par through the first five holes would be crucial. The turning point came early, with a momentum-boosting eagle on the par-five second hole.

“That eagle was key. It’s massive to get off to a good start and find your rhythm,” Norris said. His flawless back nine, which included three birdies and no bogeys, cemented his position as the only top-four player to remain error-free on the closing stretch.

‘This title means everything to me’

For Norris, the victory at Leopard Creek carried special significance. The venue, revered by South African golfers, has crowned legendary champions like Ernie Els, Charl Schwartzel, and Louis Oosthuizen.

“This title means everything to me – winning here, on a course that’s always in pristine condition, is a dream come true. To add my name alongside such great champions is an incredible blessing. This win changes a lot for me – there’s so much to look forward to in the coming years. But first, it’s time for a holiday!”

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg