South Africa's Trevor Immelman won the 27th edition of the Nedbank Golf Challenge on Sunday, in spite of bogeying the final three holes on the Gary Player Country Club course.
He outdueled England's Justin Rose, who blew up with a double-bogey six at the last, in what turned into a nervy two-horse race between the two players in the final round.
Immelman shot a 72 for a 16-under-par aggregate of 272, with Rose signing for a 73 and 273.
South Africa's Ernie Els was third on 277 after a 72 and Swede Henrik Stenson fourth on 279, also following a 72.
"I've always been very determined to be a world class golfer and winning the World Cup for South Africa was one highlight, and outplaying Tiger Woods to win the Western Open on the PGA Tour last year was another," Immelman said.
"But this event is what we in South Africa have always regarded as Africa's Major. Ever since I was a kid I've watched it on television. I dreamed of playing it one day, and then I dreamed of winning it," he said.
"Today that dream has come true and it is a very special moment for me," Immelman said.
Immelman has had an almost unique relationship with Gary Player over the year.
Player, winner of nine Majors, has taken an interest in Immelman's golf ever since he was a young boy.
The South African legend congratulates his young compatriot when he does well, commiserates when he doesn't, and offers advice and criticism when the occasion demands.
"Perhaps it is because we are similar in stature and both really work hard at our game. Maybe he sees something in me that reminds him of how he was at my age," Immelman said.
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