Italian golf star Andrea Pavan is out of the South African Open after a shocking accident that sounds more like something out of a movie than a pro sports headline.
The 36-year-old reportedly suffered serious injuries after falling down an elevator shaft ahead of the tournament in Stellenbosch, South Africa. He later underwent surgery, though officials have not released details about the extent of his injuries, citing medical privacy. The Sun was among the first outlets to report the bizarre incident.
Tournament organizers have not explained how the elevator malfunction happened, and questions remain about what exactly led to the fall. What’s clear is that Pavan won’t be teeing it up this week. Scottish golfer Richie Ramsay stepped in to take his place in the field when play began Thursday.
For longtime golf fans, it’s a stunning and unfortunate development for a player who has quietly built a strong international résumé.
Pavan has won twice on the DP World Tour, formerly known as the European Tour. His breakthrough came at the Czech Masters in 2018, followed by a win at the BMW International Open in 2019. Those victories cemented his status as one of Italy’s top golfers on the European circuit.
He’s also been a force on the Challenge Tour, where he’s racked up five career wins. Back in 2011, he captured both the Norwegian Challenge and the Apulia San Domenico Grand Final. He added two more wins in 2013 and most recently claimed the Real Czech Challenge in 2023, edging out Casey Jarvis by a single stroke.
Now, instead of competing for another title, Pavan faces a recovery process that could sideline him far longer than just one tournament.