Durban prepares for international golf with the Jonsson Workwear Durban Open

Durban is set to roll out the green carpet for the prestigious Jonsson Workwear Durban Open, welcoming elite golfers from around the globe to its world-class fairways. Taking place at the historic Durban Country Club from 19-22 February, this tournament, boasting a prize purse of R6 million (dependent on the US dollar exchange rate), represents a significant milestone in regional golf tourism and community engagement.

As South Africa continues its journey in becoming a hallmark destination for emerging golfing talents, this year’s event is marked by a newly revitalised Durban Country Club, now restored to its former championship glory, offering players a true test of skill and resilience on its illustrious greens.

Nick Jonsson, CEO and Chairman of Jonsson Workwear, commented on the importance of the tournament, stating, “Bringing the Jonsson Workwear Open back to Durban is incredibly meaningful for us. This is where our business was built, and where our headquarters are still located. Seeing it return to the Durban Country Club, one of South Africa’s great historic courses, and witnessing international golfers experience the rejuvenated course makes this homecoming even more memorable.”

The Jonsson Workwear Durban Open forms part of the South African Swing, a series of four tournaments kicking off the new season on the HotelPlanner Tour, a vital feeder series to the DP World Tour. As the pivotal concluding event of this series, the tournament will play a crucial role for South African professionals aiming to establish themselves on the Road to Mallorca Rankings and secure their places in next season’s DP World Tour.

Thomas Abt, Commissioner of the Sunshine Tour, highlighted the significance of this co-sanctioned event, explaining, “The Jonsson Workwear Durban Open is an extremely valuable element of the global pathway for our Sunshine Tour members. Through consistent exposure on the HotelPlanner Tour, we have seen several members graduate onto the DP World Tour.”

Last year's champion, JC Ritchie, made history by becoming the first South African golfer to top the Road to Mallorca Rankings, illustrating the tournament's role as a launchpad for aspiring golfers. Moreover, Durban’s hosting of the 2025 Investec South African Open promised to echo this legacy, as it was the stage where Dylan Naidoo became the first South African player of colour to triumph in the national Open.

Musa Mbhele, City Manager of eThekwini Municipality, expressed pride in hosting such a premier golfing event, stating, “This tournament will foster social cohesion and create a platform where diverse communities can come together to enjoy the spirit of competition and friendship. Young athletes, especially from disadvantaged areas, will be inspired to participate in golf through various outreach programmes and community initiatives.”

The enduring partnership among Jonsson Workwear, the City of Durban, and Durban Country Club continues to bear fruit for South African golf, with the HotelPlanner Tour marking its sixth consecutive year of success in South Africa. Jamie Hodges, HotelPlanner Tour Director, added, “Starting our season in South Africa is always a highlight for our players.” He expressed excitement over returning to Durban, praising its rich golfing history and remarking on the club’s stature as a perfect venue for concluding the South African Swing.