Golf
Watson to tee it up at Africa’s Major─── MORGAN PIEK 15:32 Mon, 02 Nov 2026
Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson is heading to Sun City for his first appearance in the Nedbank Golf Challenge in honour of Gary Player, which takes place at the revamped Gary Player Country Club in December.
The American joins an increasingly impressive line-up for Africa’s Major, becoming the fourth Major champion to be confirmed for this year’s tournament. Watson, who claimed the coveted Green Jacket in 2012 and 2014 and once occupied second place in the world rankings, adds considerable star power to an already formidable field.
He joins reigning US Open champion Wyndham Clark, as well as former US Open winners Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Rose.
Branden Grace. Photo: Sunshine Tour
His arrival further strengthens the rich American connection with the prestigious Sun City tournament, which dates back to 1981 when Johnny Miller won the inaugural edition. Other American champions over the years include Raymond Floyd, Corey Pavin, Jim Furyk, Max Homa and, most recently, Johannes Veerman.
Watson is particularly excited about returning to South Africa, a country he believes has a special place in the international golfing landscape.
“When you travel the world playing golf, South Africa is one of those places you always want to go back to. The people there live for golf and sports and the country has produced so many great players over the years. You can feel that passion every time you step on the course.
Aldrich Potgieter. Photo: Sunshine Tour
“And also, getting to see the wildlife while you’re there is just awesome. I’m really looking forward to coming back for the Nedbank Golf Challenge and seeing the fans again,” he said.
The home challenge has also received a significant boost with the inclusion of two of South Africa’s leading golfing talents, Branden Grace and Aldrich Potgieter.
Grace returns to a tournament where he has already tasted success, having become the last South African to lift the title in 2017. The nine-time DP World Tour winner also holds a remarkable place in golfing history after carding a 62 at The Open Championship in 2017, the lowest round ever recorded in a men’s Major.
Bryson DeChambeau. Photo: X
The 37-year-old is looking forward to another opportunity to compete in front of the home fans at one of the country’s most prestigious sporting events.
“I’m proud to be a former champion of Africa’s Major, and I’m very excited to be coming back to the Nedbank Golf Challenge this December,” said Grace.
Meanwhile, Potgieter will make his third appearance at Sun City, continuing what has been a remarkable rise through the professional ranks.
The 22-year-old made history as the youngest winner in Korn Ferry Tour history before becoming the youngest South African ever to win on the PGA Tour.
The Johannesburg-born Justin Rose. Photo: X
Potgieter was first invited to compete in the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2024 and came agonisingly close to announcing himself in spectacular fashion. He led the tournament after 54 holes but ultimately finished second, just one stroke behind American Johannes Veerman.
His return, alongside Grace and an impressive international contingent, promises to add even more excitement to what is shaping up to be a memorable edition of Africa’s Major.
The 2026 Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City will tee-off on 3 December.
