After almost eleven years of ups and downs, Matteo Manassero has finally savored the taste of success on the top European men’s golf circuit, winning the Jonsson Workwear Open in South Africa with an incredible total of 262 shots (-26). A triumph that marked not only his return to the heights of golf, but also a chapter of redemption in his career.
Matteo Manassero, results
“This is the best day of my career on the golf course. I am filled with an indescribable happiness. Every competition presents challenges, but overcoming them makes you see the light. Holding this trophy in your hands is a unique emotion”, he said. declared the thirty-year-old from Veneto, radiant after his feat in Edenvale, near Johannesburg.
3,942 days have passed since the last triumph, a fast that tested Manassero’s patience and determination. A player who tasted glory from a young age, winning the British Amateur and the Silver Medal at the British Open as an amateur. His exploits in the Castellò Masters in 2010, at the age of just 17, made him the youngest winner on the DP World Tour (then European Tour). A record that still stands today, 14 years later.
But after the initial successes, came the downfalls. Despite participating in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016, Manassero faced personal and professional challenges. However, he has shown extraordinary resilience, climbing back up with determination.
The support of his family, with his wife Francesca who acted as caddy in his successes on the Challenge Tour, and of the staff, including mental coach Alessandra Averna, were fundamental to his rebirth.
The president of the FIG, Franco Chimenti, praised Manassero as an example to follow, underlining his commitment and humility. Even Giovanni Malagò, number 1 of CONI, expressed his admiration for Manassero’s resilience and determination, underlining his value as a champion and as an example for all athletes.
Manassero’s return is a redemption not only personally, but also for Italian sport. His talent and determination make him a true source of pride for Italian golf, and an important card to play also in view of the next Olympics and the Italian Ryder Cup.
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