Van Rooyen fulfills his dream of childhood in Sun City

The cap – Erik van Rooyen dreamed of playing in the Nedbank Golf Challenge Since his childhood, he has had his chance after a year of strong performances in his first season on the European circuit.

"It's a tournament that I've always wanted to play when I was a kid and I came here a few times with the family," he said. "It's a privilege to be here."

Tee Times: Nedbank Golf Challenge – Round 1

The 28-year-old has five top-10s, including the finalist behind Shubankhar Sharma at the Joburg Open and four top-20 out of 23 starts on the European circuit since the start of the season.

"My first year on the European circuit has allowed me to gain many golf learning experiences and very good finishes," he said about this year.

"Once again, we will continue to do what we are doing and we are going in a very good direction."

Van Rooyen brings local experience to the $ 7.5 million tournament.

"I think the course will suit me pretty well, it's a paradise for attackers, you have long holes and little greens, I think this will be the key this week," he said. .

Van Rooyen will also receive an extra gift: he will meet Gary Player on the tee during the week.

"It's a great ambassador," said Van Rooyen. "I have not met him yet, I'm sure I'll meet him sometime this week, he's so good for golf in general, and golf in South Africa, it's a pleasure to be there." 39 to have here this week. "