Richard Sterne secured his first DP World Tour title in over a decade, clinching the Soudal Open in Belgium. The South African golfer, 44 years old, achieved this victory on Sunday, marking an end to a 13-year drought on the tour. Sterne’s performance saw him finish 18-under-par, two shots ahead of a six-way tie for second place at 16-under-par.
Sterne's winning moment was punctuated by a remarkable eagle on the par-five 17th hole. His second shot landed just feet from an albatross, ultimately settling close enough for the eagle, which propelled him to 18-under-par. This decisive play occurred as compatriot Zander Lombard, who had led for much of the day, faltered, dropping shots on the 13th and 14th holes.
The event, held at Rinkven International Golf Club in Antwerp, saw competitors Marcus Kinhult and Marcus Armitage among those who posted clubhouse targets at 16-under. Both recorded bogey-free rounds in their efforts.
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Sterne himself noted the significance of the win, referencing a prolonged period impacted by injuries. He suggested he had been sidelined for six to seven years due to physical issues, characterizing his comeback as a hard-fought achievement after enduring difficult times. A personal goal mentioned was to win in front of his children.
The Soudal Open, a four-day stroke play event, is presented as a notable fixture on the tour, offering a platform for professional golf within a high-profile environment in Belgium.
