THE FUSE

The 18th edition of the Joburg Open sees rising talent and local stars take centre stage, with a 10-year-old making a historic ceremonial drive.

Johannesburg, South Africa (05 March 2026) – The 18th edition of the Joburg Open got off to an unforgettable start at the iconic Houghton Golf Club, where history was made before the first professional tee shot. For the first time, 10-year-old Tshiamo Makamedi had the honour of hitting the opening shot to officially kick off the Joburg Open.

While the main tournament tees off today, the Pro-Am has already taken place. Each professional golfer is paired with one or more amateurs. It’s usually fun, less formal than the main event, and gives amateurs a chance to play alongside the pros while also helping raise the profile of the tournament.

Houghton, a host venue to 12 previous DP World Tour events and staging its fourth consecutive season, provided the perfect backdrop for a tournament steeped in tradition.

Among the South African stars taking to the course is Casey Jarvis. He comes into the Joburg Open on the back of two remarkable victories this season: the Magical Kenya Open presented by Absa and the Investec South African Open Championship.

With a spot secured at both the Masters and the Open Championship this year, Jarvis now has the chance to join the elite trio of players who have won three consecutive DP World Tour events.

“That would be crazy. I’ve got that opportunity now so I’m definitely going to go for it. That’s actually quite a cool goal to go for. For my name to be up there with theirs would be unreal.”

Joining him on home soil are South African trio MJ Viljoen, MJ Daffue, and Oliver Bekker, all recent winners on the HotelPlanner Tour’s opening events, alongside fellow local talent Jayden Schaper. With a field of top-tier talent competing, the Joburg Open promises high-stakes action and plenty of moments for South African fans to cheer on their own.

Spectators are certainly in for a ride as this year’s Joburg Open is already shaping up as a celebration of South African golf. All from young prodigy Tshiamo Makamedi, making history, to Casey Jarvis chasing international milestones.

Sources: Various Linked Above

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