Julien Guerrier leads as Nedbank Golf Challenge heads into the weekend

JOHANNESBURG - Frenchman Julien Guerrier holds a slender one-shot lead heading into the weekend at the Nedbank Golf Challenge after a challenging second round at the Gary Player Country Club. 

Friday’s conditions tested the field with intense heat, gusty winds, and firm greens turning the Sun City course into a formidable adversary.

Guerrier delivered a standout performance, carding a 68 to move to 5-under-par overall. “it’s a privilege to shoot under par here in the tough conditions we had,” Guerrier said.

"You have to stay patient. even good shots can be punished by the wind, as I experienced on 17."

Hot on his heels is fellow Frenchman Romain Langasque, who fired a solid 70 to end the day at 4-under-par. Langasque praised his effort as his best round this year, describing the firm greens as a stern test. 

Joining Langasque in second place is South Africa’s Ockie Strydom, whose 73 kept him within striking distance. despite his local knowledge, Strydom acknowledged the difficulty of the day, saying, “the wind was all over the place... it was a total grind”.

Defending champion Max Homa, who began the day atop the leaderboard, endured a dramatic fall in form. a rocky finish, including back-to-back double bogeys on 16 and 17, saw him card a 75, dropping to fourth place at 3-under-par.

SOUTH AFRICAN HOPEFULS SHINE

Strydom remains the best-placed South African, with fans rallying behind his bid for the title. Meanwhile, Christiaan Bezuidenhout managed to hold his ground in the top ten, while Sunshine Tour star Robin Williams impressed with a steady performance.

COMMERCIAL SUCCESS AND SUSTAINABILITY

The tournament continues to attract global attention and remains a jewel in South Africa’s sporting calendar. Nedbank CEO Jason Quinn reaffirmed the event's commercial value.

"For us as Nedbank, this is our premium event. we engage with clients, the community, and proudly celebrate what this event represents."

In line with their sustainability ethos, Nedbank also introduced "Green Time," an initiative to enhance the client's experience.

Nthabiseng Matshekga, head of marketing and experience, explained: "This offering allows Nedbank private wealth clients access to exclusive South African golf courses without a membership, using their private wealth card [to enter].”

All eyes are on Guerrier as he seeks to hold off a chasing pack of international stars and local favourites at Africa’s major. With unpredictable conditions expected to persist, the stage is set for an exhilarating finish at Sun City.