Emotional start for SA golfers as South African fans show their passion
South African stars Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel were overcome with emotion as passionate home fans created a powerful atmosphere at Steyn City, lifting the pair during a memorable opening day at the LIV Golf Tournament.
Steyn City set the stage for an emotional and memorable opening day as South African stars Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel teed off at the LIV Golf Tournament on March 19, with both players visibly moved by the atmosphere and support from local fans.
The pair admitted the moment was far bigger than just golf as they were standing on the first tee. Oosthuizen described how overwhelming the experience was as he watched Schwartzel prepare for his shot.
Read more: Crushers captain opens up on the raw edge of LIV Golf
“We just stood there talking a little bit… I was tearing up a little bit. I put my glasses on because I felt so proud.” Schwartzel shared the same sentiment, saying the atmosphere hit him in a deeply emotional way.
“Very few times you get the experience in your career where your hair stands up… I started tearing up, and I was like wow, I need to hit a tee shot, but I’m busy crying here,” he said, adding that the moment exceeded his expectations.
The players credited the crowd for creating an unforgettable environment, with Schwartzel saying that the energy from the stands helped carry him through the day, despite dealing with a back injury.
“I don’t know if I would have gotten through today if I didn’t have all the people supporting us as hard as they did.” Ahead of his round, Schwartzel went through an intense treatment routine in an effort to manage the injury, including time in a jacuzzi, therapy sessions, and medication.
Also read: Dainfern Golf Estate recounts unforgettable moments in 2025
Oosthuizen, who also played a strong round, added,
“We’ve tried to explain to everyone that South African fans will bring the vibe… and we’re a big sporting nation. I couldn’t be prouder standing on that first tee.”
The duo also spoke about the strong sense of team spirit, with Schwartzel revealing a late-night conversation with Oosthuizen about whether he would be able to compete due to his injury.
Despite the concern, encouragement from his teammate pushed him to take to the tee. The opening round ultimately proved both emotional and competitive, with Schwartzel noting that Oosthuizen edged him by three shots.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
