As South African sport continues to enjoy a remarkable period on the global stage, Southern Guards GC captain Louis Oosthuizen says the success of fellow national teams provides inspiration for athletes competing around the world.
Speaking during a Southern Guards GC media roundtable on Thursday, Oosthuizen reflected on Bafana Bafana’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup victory, South Africa’s first win at the tournament in 16 years.
Like millions of South Africans, Oosthuizen was glued to the action from his farm in the United States.
“Whenever your country plays, you watch and you support,” said Oosthuizen.
“It was so great to see last night. I watched it with some of my American friends over here and it’s awesome to see your country do that well.”
The result also carried special significance for Oosthuizen, who won The Open Championship the last time Bafana Bafana celebrated a World Cup victory.
The last time Bafana Bafana won a match at a FIFA World Cup was in 2010 – the same year Oosthuizen lifted the Claret Jug at St Andrews.
“Sixteen years ago, I remember winning The Open on the Sunday,” he said.
“I remember my friends telling me they felt like South Africa needed something like that because we’d just come off the 2010 World Cup. There had been such a huge buzz in the country and then things went a little quiet.
“Then this happened. Winning it on Mr Mandela’s birthday made it a very special day for me.”
Oosthuizen believes South Africa’s current success across multiple sporting codes is something all athletes can draw energy from.
With Bafana Bafana making history, the Proteas Women competing on the world stage, the Springboks beginning their international season and South African athletes continuing to compete globally, he says there is a special feeling surrounding South African sport.
“You pull energy from other teams in the country,” said Oosthuizen.
“Right now, being a South African sports supporter is probably the best time we can have.”
For Southern Guards GC, that same sense of national pride remains a driving force as the all-South African team continues to represent the country on the global LIV Golf stage.
With The Open Championship fast approaching, Oosthuizen will once again carry South African hopes into one of golf’s most prestigious events, drawing inspiration from a sporting nation enjoying a remarkable moment on the world stage.
The 154th Open Championship will take place at Royal Birkdale in England from July 12–19, 2026
Article Link: Louis drawing inspiration from Bafana Bafana