Due to the unfortunate outbreak of Covid-19 that affected the Golf season globally, the organisers have confirmed dates December 3 to 6 at Sun City, Rustenburg.
This comes as a relief for the resorts that has lost millions in tourism revenue as a result of the pandemic and allaying concerns on whether it will tee-off in 2020, amongst others.
“I am so excited that a date has been set for the Nedbank Golf Challenge,” says Gary Player, the tournament’s host.
“It’s one of South Africa’s favourite sporting events. I’m sure the public will be as elated as I am. The tournament does so much good for tourism and advertising our beautiful country. I’m eternally grateful for the European Tour and all our sponsors involved.”
Celebrating its 40th edition and touted as ‘Africa’s Major’ it is one of four rescheduled Rolex Series events worldwide.
Mike Brown, chief executive Nedbank Group, said: “Despite the unprecedented challenges that we are currently facing in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic, we trust the 40th anniversary of the Nedbank Golf Challenge – now back in its early December timeslot – will give millions of South Africans and sports fans around the world something very special to look forward to.
Our brand has become synonymous with ‘Africa’s Major’, a showcase of our country to the world and a household name in the world of golf having played host to the world’s leading golfers. As Nelson Mandela reminded us – Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.”
“This has been an unprecedented time for all of us in golf, and we’re grateful to the European Tour, Nedbank and all of our partners in working together to ensure that we can still present the 2020 Nedbank Golf Challenge hosted by Gary Player.
The Nedbank Golf Challenge is a week in South African sport that brings tremendous joy to so many people and we look forward to continuing this in such trying times for everybody.
As a showcase event for us as a resort and one that we take immense pride and pleasure in, we look forward to hosting another edition of ‘Africa’s Major’ in a safe and responsible manner and in ongoing consultation with the South African government and relevant health departments,” says Anthony Leeming, chief executive Sun International.
‘Africa’s Major‘ will be followed by the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai, which will now take place from December 10-13 at Jumeirah Golf Estates, where the 2020 Race to Dubai Champion will be crowned.
Players list will be confirmed at later stage.
Brett Hoppé, GM at the resort was unavailable for comment at the time of publishing.
