Dylan Naidoo has won his first European Tour event with a birdie at the first hole of a South African Open play-off
Image: Dylan Naidoo Facebook
Johannesburg-born Dylan Naidoo won his first European Tour event on Sunday with a birdie at the first hole of a South African Open play-off against Englishman Laurie Canter.
While the final round at Durban Country Club was abandoned due to rain, play was possible on the 18th hole, setting up a title showdown between the joint overnight leaders.
Both drove to the edge of the green on the short par four. Naidoo then produced a superb chip to set up a birdie putt, which he holed.
Canter, winner of the Bahrain Championship last month after a play-off, chipped beyond the pin and his birdie putt veered to the right of the hole.
"I was relaxed before my chip to the green, but there were nerves ahead of the birdie putt. Chipping is part of my DNA. I spend so many hours practising it," said 27-year-old Naidoo.
"This is a special moment in my career. I am overwhelmed by the victory. Winning the South African Open feels like a dream."
Naidoo and Canter had 14-under totals of 202 after the third round. Another Englishman, Marco Penge, finished one shot behind.
AFP
