Dundee golfer Louis Albertse makes history with PGA Championship victory

Dundee has every reason to celebrate one of its own after Louis Albertse wrote his name into South African golf history with a commanding victory in the Telkom PGA Championship at Johannesburg Country Club on Sunday.

Albertse, a member of Dundee Golf Club, closed with a final-round 68 to finish on an impressive 27 under par, claiming the title by three shots from runners-up Kyle de Beer and Samuel Simpson.

His achievement has also brought pride to his hometown, where his parents, well-known local businesspeople Louis and Yvette Albertse, are familiar faces.

Albertse finished just one shot short of the championship record of 28 under par, set by Louis Oosthuizen in 2008. His winning total equalled the second-best score in the tournament’s history, matching George Coetzee’s achievement in 2011.

The victory was a particularly welcome boost after a difficult year in which Albertse narrowly missed out on securing playing status on the DP World Tour.

“It’s been a tough year and I’m really pleased to stand here. Missing out on a main tour card with around 40 points is tough to take. I skipped Qualifying School not knowing if it was the correct decision, but this has been a great weekend,” he said after securing his fourth Sunshine Tour title.

Having his family there to share the occasion made the victory even more special.

“I’ve got my family here and it’s just been a special week.

“The golf course is great and Telkom is such a great sponsor. This is such a great event,” he said.

Albertse began the final round with a three-shot lead and was never seriously challenged. He carded an eagle and a birdie on the front nine and, despite dropping two shots on the back nine, responded with three more birdies, including one at the final hole, to seal the title.

De Beer closed with a 67 to finish on 24 under par, sharing second place with Simpson, who mounted a late challenge with three consecutive birdies before signing for a 68.