The tournament sees the return of international golf to South Africa, and the Bloemfontein teenager, Wilco Nienaber, was on fire from the get-go.

Nienaber carded a round of eight-under-par-63 to take the early clubhouse lead at the Firethorn course.

The teenager sunk nine birdies, an eagle, and three bogeys in a solid display of golf.

Following his round, Nienaber said he would take eight-under on any course.

“Eight under is nice around any golf course and to do it here in the first round of the Joburg Open, being back home again, is great.

“I haven't played much in South Africa since I turned pro but it's been great to be home. I'm just looking forward to the next three days and the next two weeks after.”

Early this afternoon, Shaun Norris of South Africa joined Nienaber on eight under.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport