Dean Burmester earned his third DP World Tour title and tenth professional victory as he won the 2023 Joburg Open at the Houghton Golf Club on Sunday.

The Bloemfonteiner, who now plays out of the USA, carded a final round of six-under-par 66 to claim a three stroke victory.

Burmester earned his place in the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon after finishing on 18-under-par, while fellow South African, Darren Fichardt, took second on 15-under-par.

Burmester said to be able to win on home soil again was something special.

“It sounds pretty cool to be the Joburg Open champion,” said Burmester.

“I’ve been playing this event for so long and to win it is amazing. That was my goal coming home. I hadn’t won this year and have been playing well, so to come here and win a tournament in my home country in front of my home fans with some of my family here is very special.”

Dan Bradbury, Dean Burmester and Darren Fichardt have all qualified to the play in the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon - Sunshine Tour

Ten years ago Burmester won his first professional title by claiming the Polokwane Classic on the Sunshine Tour, While Burmester plies his trade as a LIV golfer these day and plays mainly in the USA, he said being able to win on home soil remains very special and the Sunshine Tour will always remain dear to him.

“The Sunshine Tour is a special place and there are a lot of friends here. It’s a great breeding ground for world golf. I’m glad to be here and be home. 

“This is a beautiful game. Golf is growing fast. There were so many kids out here today and if this can make one kid take up golf, then it’s worth it. I was once that kid at a Sunshine Tour event in Bloemfontein standing next to a scoreboard changing scores. And now here I am today. So I want to now do my part and give back as well.”

“I knew what was at stake for me. My Sunshine Tour category was running out and the only way I could keep my card and keep supporting the Sunshine Tour was to win. That was my goal coming back here. I’m proud of myself, and I’m proud to be the Joburg Open champion.”

This week the DP World Tour as well as Sunshine Tour head to the Blair Athol Golf & Equestrian Estate for the South African Open.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport