Garrick Higgo is rapidly becoming a household name in professional golf circles. With his powerful left-handed swing, calm demeanor, and early career success, this young South African golfer has made a remarkable journey from the fairways of Stellenbosch to the world-renowned PGA Tour. In a sport dominated by seasoned pros, Garrick Higgo stands out for his meteoric rise, consistency under pressure, and the passion he brings to every tournament.
In this article, we’ll take you deep into the life and journey of garrick higgo—from his roots in South Africa to becoming one of the PGA Tour’s most promising new stars. We’ll explore his early influences, playing style, career milestones, and what makes him a name to watch in the years ahead.
Early Life: The Making of a Golf Prodigy
Born on May 12, 1999, in Johannesburg, and raised in Stellenbosch, Garrick Higgo’s exposure to golf began early in life. His father was an enthusiastic golfer and played a major role in introducing him to the sport. Tragedy struck when Higgo lost his father at the age of 9, an event that significantly shaped his character and resilience.
Despite this personal loss, Higgo channeled his emotions into golf, developing not only his technical skills but also a strong mental game. His early passion and talent did not go unnoticed, and by his teens, he was already competing in elite junior tournaments both locally and internationally. Click here to return to the homepage and unlock more content.
Amateur Career and College Success
Before turning pro, Garrick Higgo enjoyed a decorated amateur career. He was part of the South African junior national team and won numerous events, showcasing a level of maturity and focus that hinted at future greatness.
To further his golfing career and education, he moved to the United States and enrolled at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)—a program known for producing top golf talent. His time at UNLV allowed him to compete against high-level college players while refining his technique and course management skills. These years were instrumental in preparing him for the demands of professional golf.
Turning Professional: A Quick Ascent
Debut on the Sunshine Tour
In 2019, Garrick Higgo turned professional and made his debut on the Sunshine Tour, South Africa’s premier golf circuit. His impact was immediate. He recorded multiple top-10 finishes and secured his first professional win at the Sun City Challenge. This early success proved that Higgo had the game, confidence, and consistency to take on bigger stages.
European Tour Victories
Higgo’s breakthrough came in 2020 when he transitioned to the European Tour. That year, he won the Open de Portugal, marking his first European Tour victory. The following year, he added two more wins:
- Gran Canaria Lopesan Open
- Canary Islands Championship
Winning three times in just over a year on the European Tour is an achievement few young golfers can claim. These victories not only elevated his global ranking but also showcased his ability to perform under pressure in diverse conditions.
The PGA Tour Breakthrough
Palmetto Championship Win
Garrick Higgo’s entrance into the PGA Tour was nothing short of historic. In June 2021, during only his second PGA Tour appearance, he clinched victory at the Palmetto Championship at Congaree in South Carolina. This win made him:
- The first South African to win on the PGA Tour in his second start
- One of the fastest players ever to secure a PGA Tour title after turning pro
This win didn’t just earn him prize money and a trophy—it granted him a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour and instant credibility among the sport’s elite.
Style of Play
Higgo’s game is a blend of power and precision. As a left-handed golfer, he brings a fresh perspective to the course, often drawing comparisons to Phil Mickelson. His swing is smooth yet aggressive, and his ability to shape shots both ways gives him a tactical edge.
What sets him apart further is his composure. Rarely rattled, Higgo maintains focus in high-stakes situations, relying on strong putting and a solid short game to keep scores low. His mental strength, often built from personal adversity, is a crucial part of his winning formula.
Notable Stats and Achievements
As of mid-2025, Garrick Higgo’s resume includes:
- 1 PGA Tour win (Palmetto Championship, 2021)
- 3 European Tour wins
- 2 Sunshine Tour wins
- World Golf Ranking: Reached top 40 in 2021
- Major Appearances: Competed in all four majors
These stats affirm his status as one of the top young talents in golf and a legitimate contender in future major championships like the Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open Championship.
A Role Model for South African Golfers
South Africa has a proud golfing history, boasting names like Gary Player, Ernie Els, and Charl Schwartzel. Garrick Higgo is the latest to carry that torch. His journey is particularly inspiring for young golfers in South Africa who dream of making it big on the world stage.
Higgo remains deeply connected to his roots, often returning home and speaking at youth golf events. His humility, work ethic, and success story make him a powerful ambassador for the sport.
Media Presence and Personal Life
In addition to his golf achievements, Higgo has developed a growing media presence. He’s active on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where he shares training routines, tournament insights, and glimpses into his personal life.
Despite his fame, Higgo remains grounded. He often credits his mother and siblings for keeping him balanced, and he continues to draw strength from the memory of his father. These personal values reflect in his professional demeanor, which fans and sponsors admire.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Who is Garrick Higgo?
Garrick Higgo is a professional South African golfer known for winning on both the European Tour and PGA Tour. He is considered one of the sport’s rising stars.
How did Garrick Higgo join the PGA Tour?
Higgo earned his PGA Tour card by winning the Palmetto Championship in 2021, just his second appearance on the tour.
What makes Garrick Higgo unique?
He is a left-handed golfer with a calm demeanor, a strong short game, and the ability to win early in his career across multiple tours.
How many tournaments has Garrick Higgo won?
As of 2025, he has six professional wins: three on the European Tour, one on the PGA Tour, and two on the Sunshine Tour.
Is Garrick Higgo a future major winner?
Many golf analysts believe he has the potential to win major championships due to his skill, mindset, and rapid progress.
Final Thoughts: Garrick Higgo’s Bright Future
Garrick Higgo’s journey to the PGA Tour is nothing short of inspirational. From the golf courses of Stellenbosch to the championship fairways of the PGA Tour, his story reflects determination, resilience, and passion. He has proven that with talent, mental strength, and hard work, young athletes from any background can achieve global success.
As he continues to grow and compete, Higgo is expected to become a regular contender in golf majors and one of the most influential players of his generation. The golf world is watching closely—and cheering loudly.
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