Jacques Kruyswijk: From Pretoria Prodigy To Magical Kenya Open Champion

_{Jacques Kruyswijk of South Africa reacts after clinching the 2025 Magical Kenya Open golf championship at the par 71 Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi on Sunday February 23. PHOTO/ MAGICAL KENYA OPEN}

_{By Erick Nzioka}

NAIROBI, Kenya- In a remarkable display of skill and composure, South African golfer Jacques Kruyswijk clinched his maiden DP World Tour title at the 2025 Magical Kenya Open, a tournament proudly sponsored by Absa Kenya. Held at Nairobi’s prestigious Muthaiga Golf Club, the competition saw Kruyswijk dominate the leaderboard with a flawless weekend performance, securing a two-shot victory over England’s John Parry.

Early Life and Career

Born on October 16, 1992, in Pretoria, South Africa, Kruyswijk developed a passion for golf from a young age. His dedication bore fruit during his amateur years, most notably with a victory at the Royal Silver Vase in 2011. This achievement paved the way for his professional debut in January 2013, following an impressive 7th-place finish at the Sunshine Tour Qualifying School.

Kruyswijk wasted no time making a mark on the professional circuit, securing his first win during his rookie season on the Big Easy Tour. His breakthrough moment came in 2016 when he captured the Lion of Africa Cape Town Open, demonstrating his potential on bigger stages.

The 2025 Magical Kenya Open Journey

The Magical Kenya Open, one of Africa’s most celebrated golf tournaments, witnessed a masterclass from Kruyswijk. Entering the third round seven shots behind the leader, he staged a dramatic comeback with a bogey-free 64, sinking seven birdies to catapult himself to the top.

On the final day, he displayed nerves of steel, carding four birdies with zero bogeys to finish at an 18-under-par total of 266, securing a well-deserved victory. His consistency and precision throughout the weekend cemented his place as a rising force in professional golf.

Speaking after his victory, Kruyswijk expressed gratitude for the support from fans, fellow competitors, and Absa Kenya, which played a pivotal role in ensuring a world-class tournament experience.

_{Jacques Kruyswijk of South Africa showered in champagne and water after clinching the 2025 Magical Kenya Open golf championship at the par 71 Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi on Sunday February 23. PHOTO/ MAGICAL KENYA OPEN}

Absa Bank Kenya

As the official sponsor of the Magical Kenya Open, Absa Kenya has been instrumental in elevating the tournament’s status on the global golf calendar. Their continued investment in the event has enhanced its reputation, attracting top international players and showcasing Kenya as a prime golfing destination.

Through its sponsorship, Absa Kenya has reinforced its commitment to sports development in Africa, creating opportunities for local and international talent to shine on a prestigious platform.

Beyond the Greens

Off the course, Kruyswijk enjoys a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boxing, mixed martial arts, rugby, cricket, and mountain biking. He is also an advocate for fitness and mental resilience, incorporating CrossFit and endurance training into his routine to maintain peak performance.

His disciplined lifestyle, both on and off the greens, has been a significant factor in his steady rise in professional golf

_{Jacques Kruyswijk of South Africa showered in champagne and water after clinching the 2025 Magical Kenya Open golf championship at the par 71 Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi on Sunday February 23. PHOTO/ MAGICAL KENYA OPEN}

Looking Ahead

Kruyswijk’s triumph at the 2025 Magical Kenya Open marks a defining moment in his career, setting the stage for further successes on the DP World Tour. With his first major title secured and momentum on his side, he now looks ahead to bigger challenges, including competing in upcoming European and global events.

With Absa Kenya’s continued sponsorship and support, the Magical Kenya Open is set to grow even further, attracting more elite golfers and cementing its place as one of Africa’s premier sporting events.

As the golf world watches, Kruyswijk’s journey has only just begun—and if his performance in Nairobi is any indication, the best is yet to come.

For more updates and highlights from the 2025 Magical Kenya Open, visit sportsdesk.co.ke official page or follow the DP World Tour’s coverage online.