Another year is upon us and we asked a team of Compleat Golfer influencers to discuss the next 12 months. In this feature, they pick their next South African Major challenger.
Crystal Ball: Looking into the year ahead
The last South African to win a Major was Ernie Els in 2012. Which South African is most likely to win one or go close this year?
Gary Lemke (Compleat Golfer editor): Given that three of the four are held in the US, I’d have to go with those who have most experiences on the courses there – Louis Oosthuizen, obviously, and throw in Dylan Frittelli and Branden Grace. However, the more obvious answer is Ernie – on the Champions Tour!
Wade Pretorius (Compleat Golfer Digital Editor): You would have to say Louis Oosthuizen – he remains far and away the best Saffa on the world’s top Tours and continues to deliver results at the big events. It appears he has some final-round jitters to get over (NGC 2018 and 2019) but his swing and all-round game make him a threat whenever he tees it up. Anyone thinking The Open 2020?
Dale Hayes (commentator and businessman): Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel are still our best players and have experience of winning. Hopefully they are both healthy, and we are due for another Major.
Christopher Bentley (CEO, Royal Johannesburg and Kensington): My gut says Louis but having recently spent some time with Charl after his wrist injury, I must say he’s swinging it better than ever. He’s content and hungry to get out and win again. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him lift another Major trophy in the coming years.
Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images
