MALELANE, South Africa (AP) — Shaun Norris of South Africa made headlines by coming from behind to win the Alfred Dunhill Championship on Sunday, clinching the title by just one shot at Leopard Creek Country Club. Despite entering the final round six shots off the lead, Norris delivered a spectacular performance, shooting 5-under-par 67 and finishing the tournament at 13-under 275.
Norris faced challenges during the round, including a double bogey on the par-three seventh hole, but he managed to recover, showcasing his skill and determination. This victory marks his second win on the European Tour, the first being at the Steyn City Championship back in 2022. Winning on home soil means even more to him, as he expressed deep appreciation, stating, “This title means everything to me.”
Marcus Kinhult, who led going onto the final day with a two-shot advantage, faltered, finishing tied for second alongside John Parry and Ryan van Velzen. Kinhult, aiming to secure his second DP World Tour win, struggled particularly on the front nine, where he made double bogey on the seventh, and couldn't recover sufficiently throughout the day.
Ryan van Velzen, who started the final round as one of the leaders, had his name up there with the other contenders before losing momentum with a bogey on the last hole, which sealed his fate and prevented him from forcing a playoff. He had been touted as the underdog, entering with odds of 300-1, making his performance all the more impressive. “Unbelievable,” Norris commented on the finish, highlighting the emotions of the tightly contested tournament.
After Norris's eagle on the second hole, his momentum shifted. “That eagle was key. It’s massive to get off to a good start and put yourself in a nice rhythm,” he explained. This proved pivotal, allowing him to stay competitive and maintain his focus on each shot, leading to his successful finish.
Following his victory, Norris received €255,000 from the total purse of €1,500,000 and earned 500 points for the Race to Dubai, enhancing his standing on the DP World Tour. His performance not only boosts his confidence but also establishes him as a player to watch for the upcoming season, especially with the next event being the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.
Reflecting on his win, Norris expressed gratitude to his family and mentioned how challenging the past year had been. “Thanks to God, my family, my wife. We’ve kept it together. Winning two weeks ago in Japan and then winning this week, what a blessing,” he remarked, demonstrating both humility and relief after what appears to be a turning point for him.
Norris is particularly thrilled about his victory at the Leopard Creek venue, which holds immense significance for South African golfers. "To win here at Leopard Creek, which is always in spectacular condition and where we’ve had such good champions such as Ernie Els and Louis Oosthuizen – to now put my name on this trophy is a blessing," he noted.
Now basking in his latest achievement, Norris looks forward to enjoying some well-deserved time off to celebrate, promising, “But now it’s time for a holiday.” His victory at the Alfred Dunhill Championship is not just another trophy but also a heartfelt moment etched in his personal golfing legacy.
