Due to persistent rain last week, only three rounds could be completed, and the champion was ultimately decided by a playoff. With South Africa’s Naidoo and England’s Laurie Canter tied for the lead at 14-under-par after three rounds, a playoff was required to determine the winner.

Reflecting on his victory, Naidoo said that going into the playoff, he had nothing to lose and decided to go for broke, as he had already achieved certain objectives.

“For what this means in terms of Papwa Sewgolum and him having won the Natal Open here, it’s incredible. I feel like he was with me here today,” said Naidoo.

The significance of this win was amplified by the venue – the Durban Country Club – where, in 1963, Sewsunker “Papwa” Sewgolum made history as the first player of colour to win a professional golf tournament in South Africa by triumphing in the Natal Open.

Naidoo’s victory secures him a DP World Tour (European Tour) card for the next year, along with one of three available spots for The Open at Royal Portrush in July. It was a special Sunday, as his father had flown in to watch the final round – which never took place – then left for the airport to return home for work on Monday, only to race back just in time to witness the playoff and see his son make history.

The 2025 Open Championship qualifiers – Marco Penge, Dylan Naidoo, and Darren Fichardt. Photo: Sunshine Tour

“My dad and I have been through it all, and I couldn’t think of anyone more special to share this with. 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. And I’m playing in The Open. It’s a dream,” Naidoo added.

South Africa’s Darren Fichardt and England’s Marco Penge also secured places in The Open through the Investec South African Open, which is part of The Open Qualifying Series.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Christiaan Maas finished as the leading amateur and claimed the Freddie Tait Cup for the second time in his career, ending the tournament at 12-under-par overall.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg