Since 2011 Charl Schwartzel has finished sixth, second, sixth, 14th, and ninth at Gary Player Country Club, but is yet to lift the Nedbank Golf Challenge trophy.
The world number 27 wrapped up the 2016 PGA Tour season with a share of 10th place at the Tour Championship, capping off a year that included a playoff victory at the Valspar Championship.
He was fourth at the BMW Championship, which is the penultimate event on the PGA Tour calendar, and mentioned his putting woes afterwards.
‘I played really well in these playoffs, up until the third round. Every single one of them I’ve been in the top 20 and I’ve hit the ball really good and had a really awful time with the putter. So, it’s just nice to come out and play some golf like I’ve been feeling like I should,’ he said.
The 2011 Masters champion took a few weeks’ break after playing at East Lake Golf Club, but returned to compete at the WGC-HSBC Champions and shared 30th place alongside Branden Grace.
‘The golf swing’s not doing very well and I had a really bad back this week, so maybe that’s a factor,’ said Schwartzel. ‘At least my putting feels good, because that’s normally where you score, so if I can find the long game, then I could do well in the next few events.’
Schwartzel’s track record at the Nedbank Golf Challenge speaks for itself. He’s rested well in the buildup to the $7-million tournament and is a sure favourite for the win.
