*
Hollick Eagles 18th for Dramatic BMW International Open Victory
Munich, Germany – Golfing folklore was written at Golfclub München Eichenried on Sunday as South African Michael Hollick, a 39-year-old rookie, clinched his maiden DP World Tour title at the 2026 BMW International Open in the most spectacular fashion imaginable. A stunning eagle on the 72nd hole propelled Hollick to a one-shot victory, denying compatriot Hennie du Plessis a long-awaited breakthrough win in a final round pulsating with high drama and fluctuating fortunes.
The air was thick with tension as the final groups navigated the sun-drenched German course. Du Plessis, who had held a commanding three-shot lead with just a handful of holes remaining, appeared destined for his first DP World Tour triumph. However, golf, as it so often does, had other plans, and the final stretch transformed into an unforgettable theatre of triumph and heartbreak. Hollick, showing nerves of steel and an audacious flair, seized the moment, crafting a finish that will be replayed for years to come.
A Career-Defining Comeback
Hollick's path to victory was nothing short of extraordinary. Trailing by three strokes late in the final round, the South African journeyman meticulously chipped away at Du Plessis's lead. The turning point arrived on the par-5 18th, the final hole of the tournament. With Du Plessis already in the clubhouse at 17-under par, Hollick stood on the tee knowing he needed something special – a birdie to force a playoff, or an eagle to win outright.
He delivered the latter with breathtaking precision. A sensational approach shot with a 5-iron found the green, leaving him a putt of around six metres for eagle. As the ball rolled true and disappeared into the cup, a roar erupted from the galleries, signalling a dramatic shift in destiny. Hollick's final round of 67, featuring a birdie on the 17th followed by that iconic eagle on the 18th, completed a remarkable turnaround, culminating in an 18-under par total of 270.
Du Plessis's Late Stumble
For Hennie du Plessis, the conclusion of the 2026 BMW International Open will undoubtedly sting. Having played superb golf for much of the week, he found himself in prime position to convert his lead into a victory. However, the pressure of the final holes proved immense. A bogey on the 17th, followed by a par on the 18th, saw his three-shot advantage evaporate. While a round of 66 is usually more than enough to contend, the sudden surge from Hollick left Du Plessis agonisingly short, finishing at 17-under par.
This marks Du Plessis's third second-place finish on the DP World Tour, extending a frustrating wait for his maiden title. Despite the disappointment, his consistent play throughout the week, particularly his masterful performance for much of Sunday, earned him one of two coveted exemptions into The Open Championship, a significant consolation prize. Bernd Wiesberger also secured an Open Championship spot, finishing in solo third place at 14-under par.
From Coaching to Champion
Michael Hollick's emotional victory at the BMW International Open carries an even deeper resonance given his personal journey. Just four years ago, at the age of 35, Hollick nearly walked away from professional golf entirely, putting his clubs in the cupboard to pursue a full-time coaching career. His return to competitive play began with a renewed passion, winning the Zimbabwe Open in 2024 and subsequently two other tournaments, slowly but surely finding his feet again on the Sunshine Tour.
His rookie campaign on the DP World Tour has been a testament to perseverance and unwavering belief. To secure his first title at such a prestigious event, and in such dramatic fashion, is a story that will inspire golfers and sports fans alike. The victory not only earns Hollick a winner's share of $510,000 from the $3,000,000 purse but also 585 Race to Dubai points, significantly bolstering his position in the season-long standings and securing his playing rights for the foreseeable future.
Key Highlights from the Final Round:
- Winner: Michael Hollick (South Africa)
- Final Score: 18-under 270
- Winning Moment: Eagle on the par-5 18th hole
- Runner-up: Hennie du Plessis (South Africa), 17-under 271
- Course: Golfclub München Eichenried, Munich, Germany
- Prize Money: Hollick earned $510,000
- Notable Performances: Bernd Wiesberger finished 3rd (-14), Carlos Ortiz T4 (-12)
- Open Championship Spots: Hennie du Plessis and Bernd Wiesberger secured exemptions.
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNWodhBbY3
What Next for Hollick and the Tour?
Hollick's triumph at the BMW International Open solidifies his place as a rising force on the DP World Tour, proving that dedication and a never-say-die attitude can lead to extraordinary achievements, regardless of age. This win provides him with immense confidence and momentum as the Race to Dubai season progresses. For Hennie du Plessis, while the immediate sting of defeat will be palpable, the Open Championship exemption offers a fantastic opportunity to regroup and target a major performance. The DP World Tour now looks ahead to a thrilling summer schedule, with the drama of Munich setting a high bar for the tournaments to come.