Swiss professional golfer Chiara Tamburlini (24) reigned supreme at the 10th edition of the Joburg Ladies Open, held at Modderfontein Golf Club this past weekend. The rising star, who only turned professional last August, entered the final round boasting a commanding six-shot lead. Maintaining her composure throughout, Tamburlini carded a closing 70 to finish on a dominant 17 under par. “I’m feeling really good right now. Honestly, I’m a bit speechless and I’m going through so many emotions,” she said minutes after her victory. This emphatic win marks the largest margin of victory in the tournament’s 10-year history, surpassing Ashleigh Buhai’s six-shot triumph in the inaugural edition. The triumph signifies Tamburlini’s maiden victory on both the Sunshine Ladies Tour and Ladies European Tour. Having only participated in seven Ladies European Tour events prior to Joburg, her meteoric rise suggests a future brimming with promise.
Elated by her accomplishment, Tamburlini described the win as “incredible.” “I’m truly overwhelmed right now,” she confessed moments after securing victory. “Honestly, I’m speechless – a whirlwind of emotions is coursing through me.”
Throughout the tournament, Tamburlini displayed unwavering consistency.
“My primary focus was hitting fairways and greens,” she explained. “It might sound simplistic, but that’s the cornerstone of good golf.”
Following her victory, Tamburlini expressed her eagerness to connect with her loved ones.
“My parents and boyfriend will definitely be the first to receive my call,” she revealed.
It was the first time Tamburlini visited Johannesburg, and she proudly boasted that she had a pleasant time. “I really enjoyed it. People here are kind.”
The prestigious Joburg Ladies Open tournament also served as a platform for the City of Joburg’s commendable “Birdies for Dignity” campaign, a collaboration with Spar and Dove. Each birdie carded by a professional golfer during the competition translated into a dignity hamper donation.
A total of 300 hampers will be distributed to deserving female learners at Bramley Primary School on Monday, 22 April.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering women in sports,” said Cllr Loyiso Masuku, MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services. “These past four days have been truly remarkable.”
Bongi Mokaba, Director of Events for the City of Johannesburg and Tournament Promoter, expressed her satisfaction at the tournament’s success.
“Standing here at 3:30 pm, witnessing the culmination of another successful tournament, fills me with immense pride,” said Mokaba.
“This accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without phenomenal teamwork. My deepest gratitude goes out to the entire team who tirelessly planned and organised this event. Now, it’s time for me to unwind until the next challenge arises,” said a jubilant Mokaba.
Written by Luyanda Lunika and Brümilda Swartbooi
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