Golf
DeChambeau to tee it up at Africa’s Major─── MORGAN PIEK 10:21 Tue, 18 Aug 2026
Africa’s Major is set for a huge boost in December, with the iconic South African tournament in the North West having managed to attract one of the biggest names in the sport for the first time.
The golf superstar Bryson DeChambeau is heading back to South Africa, with the LIV Golf star confirmed as one of the headline attractions for this year’s Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City.
South African golf legend Gary Player made the announcement on Monday evening, expressing his delight at the prospect of welcoming DeChambeau back to the country, and more particularly, to play in his tournament.
Bryson DeChambeau after winning LIV Golf South Africa. Photo: LIV Golf
DeChambeau is no stranger to South African fans. Earlier this year, he claimed victory in the inaugural LIV Golf South Africa tournament at Steyn City, edging Spain’s Jon Rahm in a dramatic playoff.
That victory further cemented his popularity with local supporters and provided a memorable introduction to LIV Golf’s first South African event.
Speaking about DeChambeau coming back to South Africa, the 90-year-old Player said this is a very exciting development for the tournament at it’s fans.
“Bryson was hugely popular with the South African crowds earlier this year, and it is fantastic to welcome him back.”
DeChambeau’s return to Sun City will also mark his comeback to the DP World Tour, with the Nedbank Golf Challenge forming part of the opening events of the 2027 DP World Tour season.
The tournament is scheduled for December at the Gary Player Country Club in the Pilanesberg, where DeChambeau will face another demanding test on a course that has undergone significant improvements.
Player believes the American’s powerful game and global appeal will make him a major attraction at the tournament.
“Bryson is a true global champion of golf. I know he will receive a very special welcome at Sun City, and I look forward to seeing how the new and improved Gary Player Country Club challenges his game,” Player added.
Gary Player at the 2024 Nedbank Golf Challenge. Photo: Sunshine Tour
DeChambeau’s participation comes at an uncertain time for LIV Golf, with the Saudi-backed series facing questions over its long-term financial structure and future. LIV Golf is reportedly working towards securing a new funding model ahead of a 1 September deadline after the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund withdrew its multi-billion-dollar backing.
The uncertainty has raised questions over the future schedules of LIV players and whether the series will continue staging events in South Africa beyond 2026. For now, South African golf fans have another opportunity to see one of the game’s biggest stars in action.
After winning the inaugural LIV Golf South Africa title earlier this year, DeChambeau will now return to the country with his sights set on another major victory.
The 2026 Nedbank Golf Challenge will be played from 3 to 6 December.
