Louis Oosthuizen cruised to a six-shot victory at the South African Open hosted by the City of Johannesburg to move to third in the early stages of the Race to Dubai Rankings.
The South African, whose last victory came at the 2016 ISPS Handa Perth International in, entered the final day at Randpark Golf Club with a three shot-lead. While he saw that cut to one after just three holes, he recovered superbly to sign for a 67 and get to 18 under par, ahead of Romain Langasque on 12 under.
“Congratulations to Louis on a phenomenal display on home soil,” said Nick Tarratt, Director, European Tour International Dubai Office. “Louis joins a long list of South African greats to lift the trophy including Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Gary Player. We wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season and hope to see him back at Jumeirah Golf Estates for the 2019 DP World Tour Championship, Dubai.”
The 36 year old has now won nine European Tour titles, with five of those coming on home soil, including the 2011 and 2012 Africa Open and 2013 and 2014 Volvo Golf Champions. Oosthuizen receives 335 Race to Dubai points, which moves him up to third place in the Rankings.
“I knew today was either going to be very special or heartbreaking. I know there's only a few that have won The Open and the SA Open, so I'm very chuffed to have my name on this,” said Oosthuizen.
“We had a tough start today and my caddie just told me, 'you're swinging it well, just go for it'. I just got back to basics, to try and hit fairways and greens. I know I'm putting well; I just needed to give myself putting opportunities for birdie. This feels very special."
Langasque, who secured his playing privileges at Qualifying School, earned second spot with an impressive five under par 66 in the final round. The Frenchman jumps from 62nd to fifth on the Rankings with 243 points and also took one of the three Open Championship spots on offer.
Joining Langasque at Royal Portrush Golf Club next year will be Oliver Wilson and Charl Schwartzel, who finished two further back to take a share of third place. Both men receive 94.8 points, which leaves them tied 13th in the Race to Dubai.
The 2019 DP World Tour Championship takes place at Jumeirah Golf Estates from Thursday 21 to Sunday 24 November.
