Golf Scholar Judd Sundelson Claims Africa Region 5 Title on International Debut
University of St Andrews golf scholar Judd Sundelson delivered a standout performance on his senior international debut for South Africa, claiming the individual title at the 2026 Africa Region 5 Golf Tournament in Eswatini.
The reigning South African Amateur champion posted rounds of 69, 73 and 74 to finish at three-under-par 213, securing a composed two-shot victory at Ezulwini Golf Club.
Sundelson’s triumph capped a remarkable first senior appearance and underlined his continued rise in the amateur game, following his national title success earlier this year and his appearance at the 115th Investec South African Open Championship.
He recently completed an MSc in Finance and Banking at the University of St Andrews Business School during the 2024–25 academic year and is now pursuing a second master’s degree, an MLitt in Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asian Security Studies.
Sundelson’s success also played a key role in a dominant team performance, as South Africa retained the Region 5 Championship in emphatic fashion. Teaming up with CJ van Wyk, Joshua Koekemoer and Johndre Ludick, he helped secure a commanding 26-shot victory, with the team finishing on an impressive total of 18-under-par.
Zambia took second place, with Zimbabwe finishing third. Namibia, Eswatini, Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi and Lesotho completed the standings in a tightly contested week of regional competition.
For Sundelson, the victory adds another significant chapter to an already impressive season and reinforces the growing influence of University of St Andrews golfers on the international amateur stage.
