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Latest LIV Golf announcement leaves former Open winner clearly excited: ‘It’s unbelievable…’

Photo by Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images
Photo by Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images
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LIV Golf’s trip to the UK this weekend has centred around its 11th event of the season, with plenty of attention on how the tour has continued to expand its reach.

Joaquin Niemann put together another strong showing at JCB Golf and Country Club, putting himself in position for what could be a solid finish.

But the bigger talking point is LIV’s announcement of a new event in a new country for 2026, which has already started to generate plenty of discussion.

A former Open champion has weighed in on the news, offering an intriguing perspective on figures like Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.

Louis Oosthuizen shares his excitement with LIV Golf’s 2026 event in South Africa

LIV Golf UK by JCB - Day One
Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images

Louis Oosthuizen may not be the most recognisable name in LIV Golf, but he has a strong CV as the 2010 Open winner and a former world number four.

The South African was on hand at the press conference, where it was confirmed that LIV Golf will host an event in his home country next March.

“Yes, very excited about having the tournament in South Africa,” Oosthuizen said.

“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 might enjoy heading out there too, for a change of scenery and venue.

But it means more for young South African fans, who will see some of their heroes up close.

Oosthuizen gives his take on the LIV Golf South Africa course

Next season’s LIV Golf South Africa event is set for The Club at Steyn City, running from March 20-22. Oosthuizen hasn’t played there himself. However, he has heard plenty of good things about the venue.

“I’ve heard great things about other tournaments that have been played there before. 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.”