The main focus of the LIV Golf tour this weekend has been the 11th event of the season in the United Kingdom.
Joaquin Niemann looks set to win the tournament at the JCB Golf and Country Club after another superb performance.
But perhaps the biggest storyline is that there will be a new event in a new country on the LIV Golf calendar in 2026.
One former Open champion has shared his thoughts on the news, making an interesting point about Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, and more.
Louis Oosthuizen reacts as LIV Golf announces South Africa event
Louis Oosthuizen is not the highest-profile player on the LIV Golf roster, but he is still a major champion (2010 Open) and former world number four.
The South African golfer spoke at the press conference, where it was confirmed that LIV Golf will be heading to his home country next March.
“Yes, very excited about having the tournament in South Africa,” Oosthuizen told reporters.
“Everyone who was involved in doing this, I remember meeting Mr. [Gayton] McKenzie in Korea for the first time, and I think the idea was just to introduce him to LIV, and all of a sudden, he’s like, ‘No, we’re coming to South Africa in ’26.’ I’m like, ‘Oh, this is really happening.’
“To everyone involved – the Stinger management, LIV, you guys – it’s unbelievable to make this happen.
“I can’t wait to see the faces of 10-, 11-, 12-year-olds watching golf in South Africa, seeing the Euros play, Phil, Bryson, Brooks, all these guys. It’s going to be a massive thing for our country and to grow the game.”
The players will probably enjoy heading to a new venue on another continent, but the news is more impactful for South African golf fans.
Especially for the youngsters, it will be special to see the likes of DeChambeau – the biggest superstar on the tour.
Louis Oosthuizen comments on LIV Golf South Africa golf course
LIV Golf South Africa will take place at The Club at Steyn City from March 20th to 22nd next season. Oosthuizen has never played the course before, but he has heard good reviews.
“I’ve heard great things about other tournaments that have been played there before,” he added. “I spoke a little bit to Steven [Louw] yesterday, and I know Chris is going to be on it as well.
“We do have the famous Kikuyu out there, and I think we can grow a little bit off that and make it a little tighter where those long guys hit it.
“I don’t hit it that far anymore, so I want to make it so it fits me a little better. We don’t want to have a bombers and birdies festival.”
It was then pointed out to Oosthuizen that his Stingers GC teammate Dean Burmester would love a “bombers and birdies” style setup.
“I know, I know,” he replied. “We’ll try to set it up fair but tough, and I know we’re going to do some good work together. Dean is going in the next few weeks. He’s going to make a visit there.
“I’m going to make a visit when I go back to SA, as well, just to see what we’re dealing with, but it’s a Nicklaus design, so it will be a great layout. Looking forward to spicing it up a little bit.”
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