Dramatic Play-Off Victory: Dylan Naidoo Triumphs at the South African Open

Dylan Naidoo secures a thrilling play-off win against Laurie Canter at the South African Open, claiming his first DP Tour victory and a spot at The Open Championship.

Image

South Africa Open Final Standings:

-14 D Naidoo (SA), L Canter (Eng) – Naidoo wins after first play-off hole -13 M Penge (Eng) -12 D Fichardt (SA), B Grace (SA), C Maas (SA) -11 A Pavan (Ita), D Whitnell (Eng)

Selected Others:

-10 S Jamieson (Sco) -9 S Bairstow (Eng), R Mansell (Eng) -8 T Clements (Eng), N Kimsey (Eng) -7 R Ramsey (Sco) -6 J Donaldson (Wal)

Full Leaderboard

Home favourite Dylan Naidoo claimed a dramatic play-off win over England's Laurie Canter after Sunday's final round at the South African Open was washed out because of rain.

The pair shared the lead on 14 under after both round two and three needed to be completed on Saturday, but the continuing inclement weather in Durban meant the fourth round was abandoned and the tournament went straight to a hole-by-hole play-off between them at the 18th.

Naidoo, 27, played a delightful pitched second shot which left him with a four-foot birdie putt, while Canter chipped beyond the pin. The Englishman, who won in Bahrain last month, then saw his birdie putt veer beyond the hole, but Naidoo held his nerve to claim his first DP Tour victory.

This victory also secured his place at July's Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

"I was relaxed before my chip to the green, but there were nerves ahead of the birdie putt," said Naidoo, the world number 466. "Chipping is part of my DNA, I spend so many hours practising it. This is a special moment in my career. I am overwhelmed by the victory. Winning the South African Open feels like a dream."

This triumph marks a significant milestone in Naidoo's career, and his performance under pressure highlights his potential in the world of professional golf. The South African Open continues to be a prestigious event, drawing top talent and delivering thrilling moments for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

What to Read Next

McIlroy Struggles with Rustiness at Truist Championship Ahead of US PGA
Golf

McIlroy Struggles with Rustiness at Truist Championship Ahead of US PGA

Rory McIlroy battles rustiness at the Truist Championship, finishing five shots behind leader Keith Mitchell as he prepares for the US PGA Championship.

Jose Maria Olazabal Joins European Ryder Cup Team as Vice-Captain for 2025
Golf

Jose Maria Olazabal Joins European Ryder Cup Team as Vice-Captain for 2025

Jose Maria Olazabal returns as vice-captain for the European Ryder Cup team in 2025, bringing his vast experience and passion to the event at Bethpage Black.

McIlroy and Lowry Struggle to Close Gap at Zurich Classic Amidst Intense Competition
Golf

McIlroy and Lowry Struggle to Close Gap at Zurich Classic Amidst Intense Competition

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry face challenges at the Zurich Classic, remaining six shots behind the leaders after a tough second round.

Bryson DeChambeau's Triumphant Breakthrough in 2025 LIV Golf
Golf

Bryson DeChambeau's Triumphant Breakthrough in 2025 LIV Golf

Bryson DeChambeau secures his first LIV Golf win of 2025 in South Korea.

Mimi Rhodes Leads by Three Shots at Joburg Open
Golf

Mimi Rhodes Leads by Three Shots at Joburg Open

Mimi Rhodes holds a three-shot lead at the Joburg Ladies Open.

Bryson DeChambeau's Dominance in LIV Miami with Masters Winners in Pursuit
Golf

Bryson DeChambeau's Dominance in LIV Miami with Masters Winners in Pursuit

Bryson DeChambeau leads LIV Miami; Masters winners in contention.

Rory McIlroy's Triumphant Return to Northern Ireland After Masters Victory
Golf

Rory McIlroy's Triumphant Return to Northern Ireland After Masters Victory

Rory McIlroy arrives back in Northern Ireland after his Masters win. Learn about his journey.

McIlroy and Lowry Aim for Comeback at Zurich Classic
Golf

McIlroy and Lowry Aim for Comeback at Zurich Classic

McIlroy and Lowry five shots off lead at Zurich Classic. Will they stage a comeback?

Rory McIlroy: In Prime Form for the Masters 2025
Golf

Rory McIlroy: In Prime Form for the Masters 2025

Rory McIlroy, 35, is in top form for the Masters with two 2025 wins and aims for the Green Jacket.

Scottie Scheffler's Spectacular 61 Leads Byron Nelson Tournament
Golf

Scottie Scheffler's Spectacular 61 Leads Byron Nelson Tournament

Scottie Scheffler shoots 61 to lead Byron Nelson tournament on opening day.

Atlanta Drive's Triumphant Comeback in Inaugural TGL Championship
Golf

Atlanta Drive's Triumphant Comeback in Inaugural TGL Championship

Atlanta Drive GC stages a remarkable comeback to win the first TGL title.

Rory McIlroy Set to Defend Team Title with Lowry in Zurich Classic
Golf

Rory McIlroy Set to Defend Team Title with Lowry in Zurich Classic

Shane Lowry confirms Rory McIlroy will return to defend team title.

Rory McIlroy's Unfinished Business at Portrush Open and Beyond
Golf

Rory McIlroy's Unfinished Business at Portrush Open and Beyond

Rory McIlroy aims to settle unfinished business at the Portrush Open. The event is set to be huge.

Rory McIlroy's Victory and Its Impact on Manchester United
Golf

Rory McIlroy's Victory and Its Impact on Manchester United

Rory McIlroy's Masters win and its potential influence on Manchester United.

Rory McIlroy's Triumph at Masters: Rewards and Privileges
Golf

Rory McIlroy's Triumph at Masters: Rewards and Privileges

Rory McIlroy's Masters win brings multiple rewards and privileges.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.