​​​​As the excitement around the Joburg Open 2023 - co-sanctioned by the Sunshine Tour and the DP World - continues to build, the spotlight is firmly on the young and promising players making their mark at the prestigious Houghton Golf Club.

The international golf tournament, which commenced on Thursday, 23 November, has witnessed the impressive debuts of two of the youngest golfers on the field, Robin Williams and Yurav Premlall, both of whom have set the tone for what promises to be a challenging yet exhilarating competition.

At just 22 years old, Williams, hailing from Stellenbosch in the Western Cape, embarked on the challenging slopes of the Houghton Golf Club with unwavering determination. In an interview, Williams shared his initial thoughts on the course, acknowledging its formidable challenges.

"The slopes of the course are truly challenging, but I had a great start. It is a learning experience, and I am ready to pull up my socks and perform to my level best in the coming rounds," he said.

Williams' journey into golf began at an early age, inspired by his father's introduction to the captivating sport. His parents, staunch supporters, nurtured his passion, accompanying him on his global golfing journey.

The turning point in Williams' career occurred in 2017 when he received a special invitation to the British Masters at Close House. At the tender age of 16, he participated in the European Tour, carving a path for himself in the competitive golfing arena.

Premlall, at the age of 20, brought his youthful brilliance to the Joburg Open for the first time this year. Having begun his golfing journey at the age of 7, Premlall has steadily honed his skills over the years, accumulating an impressive five appearances at the SA Open.

He expressed admiration for Shaun Dean, whom he considers a source of inspiration for his golfing aspirations.

"Shaun Deen has always been one of the best in the game, and that is something I aspire to emulate in the future," Premlall said.

Delighted and grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Joburg Open 2023, he emphasised the significance of the tournament in his career.

"This is where I grew up. Playing in the Joburg Open not only means exposure in my golf career but is a testament to the support and encouragement I have received," he shared.

Williams and Premlall are beacons of potential challenging the greens at the Houghton Golf Club in this year's Joburg Open, said Bongi Mokaba, the City's director of events management.

Mokaba added that it was genuinely exciting to witness young and promising talents like Williams and Premlall making their mark in the Joburg Open.

"These two golfers, with their youthfulness and enthusiasm, exemplify how the Joburg Open creates opportunities for young players to learn, grow, and make a name for themselves in the golfing world," she said.

For those eager to witness these emerging talents and other skilled golfers take on the challenge, tune in to SuperSport channel 213 every day until Sunday, 26 November 2023, from 12pm to 4:30pm when the new champion will be announced, concluding what promises to be an unforgettable display of golfing prowess.

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Written by Getrude Mamabolo

23/04/ 2023