It’s been a whirlwind couple days for Dylan Naidoo with his breakthrough victory in the SA Open, and though his career is just starting out, the youngster has already ensured he will leave a legacy behind.
The 27-year-old became the first player of colour from South Africa to win the SA Open on Sunday, beating England’s Laurie Canter in a playoff in the rain shortened event.
Before Naidoo, the legendary Papwa Sewgolum came closest in the second oldest national open in golf when he finished second in 1963.
In fact, Sewgolum who won the Natal Open in 1965 beating out iconic SA golf legend Gary Player at Durban Country Club, had to receive his trophy outside the clubhouse as only whites were allowed inside due to Apartheid laws.
Emerging triumphant at hallowed Durban Country Club
Flash forward to 60 years later, and Naidoo emerged triumphant at the same venue to create a piece of history on his own and not one tainted by a racist regime.
Two days after his victory, Naidoo said he is still trying to make sense of the flood of emotions.
“It still hasn't fully sunk in, but I've had a couple strategy meetings with my team and we're trying to figure out a new schedule and new goals for the year,” Naidoo told SportsBoom.com in an exclusive interview.
“It's all happened so fast, but it's really exciting.”
Inspiring the next generation
Having grown up in the Indian township of Lenasia south of Joburg, Naidoo hoped others would soon follow in his footsteps.
“I've always wanted to be an inspiration and an ambassador for players of colour in South Africa and I think this win has kind of put a spotlight on it, but that's always been my goal since I've turned pro, even before I turned pro.”
“I hope it gives them something to aim for.”
Opening up a sea of opportunity for a better future
To go with his life-changing paycheque of 245,489 Euros (R4.79m), the up-and-coming player also earns a DP World Tour card for the season, and entry into The Open Championship later this year.
“That's the stuff I'm still wrapping my head around, you know, going to Port Rush to play The Open, playing Wentworth, playing Dubai Desert Classic next year.”
“This is the stuff that dreams are made of, and it felt so far away for so long and now it's here. So, it's a really special moment.”
“I've still got a lot of golf in me, I hope. I'm not there yet in my journey. This is just the beginning and hopefully I can keep on performing and let's see where I end up.”
Though success on the biggest stage is never guaranteed, Naidoo’s win certainly gives him opportunity. Naidoo is also a former Golf RSA member, which together with the Sunshine Tour has made incredible progress for the development of the sport in South Africa.
And though he’s reserved about making predictions about his future, it’s clear that he’s only just getting started.