One of golf’s biggest digital icons, Rick Shiels, brought international exposure to the Skukuza Golf Club (SGC), aptly dubbed the wildest green in the world.

For those unfamiliar with the digital fairway, Shiels is a powerhouse in the golfing industry as a YouTube sensation and influencer. He has a staggering 5.5m followers across his platforms.

Primarily known for his equipment tests and course vlogs, Shiels was in the Lowveld region to play at some of the most iconic courses in the world.

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Playing at the SGC, where golf, man and wildlife share the same space in the Kruger National Park (KNP) was on his bucket list.

Jean Rossouw, renowned head green-keeper at SGC, said Shiels had reached out after playing at Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate, as well as Leopard Creek Country Club.

These are among the highest rated golf courses globally. He contacted the SGC via a travel agency to secure a spot at Skukuza.

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While he is used to the pressure of a difficult putt under different circumstances, Shiels found the local hazards far wilder than he could have imagined.

“He was a bit scared of the animals, but at the same time he really enjoyed playing in the bush. I also enjoyed being with him on the course and it was great exposure for the club,” said Rossouw.

The visit provided significant publicity for the course, putting it on the map for millions of golf enthusiasts worldwide. Playing with Shiels also had a personal impact on Rossouw.

“As a player, I learned a lot from him, and I believe he also learned a lot from me,” he said.

SGC is currently undergoing a transition period with Rossouw leaving the club at the end of April.

While a replacement has not yet been named, the focus remains on maintaining excellence.

“I’ve just been focusing on my work at the moment, getting the course in top condition before I leave so that the next greenkeeper can maintain that standard,” he said.