Italian golfer Andrea Pavan has said that he is “recovering in hospital” after undergoing surgery following a fall down a lift shaft prior to a DP World Tour event in South Africa.
Pavan, a two-time winner on Tour, had been due to play the South African Open at Stellenbosch Golf Club this week before the incident, which happened in his private accommodation close to the course.
According to reports, the golfer fell when the lift doors opened but there was no lift car in the shaft, with the 36-year-old sustaining multiple injuries.
In a statement released via the DP World Tour, Pavan thanked the public for their messages of support after a “difficult” two days.
“I would like to say a big thank you for all the kind words and wishes I have received over the last 48 hours,” Pavan said. “I had surgery on my shoulder and my back on Wednesday evening and I am currently recovering in hospital.
“I now have a lot of rehab and hard work ahead of me, but the care I have received so far from the Mediclinic hospital staff has been incredible, as has the support from the DP World Tour, Sunshine aTour and all their staff here in Stellenbosch.
“The last two days have been difficult, but I am in very good hands and to have so many players, caddies and staff visit and contact me has meant a lot to me. Grazie mille everyone, from me, my wife Audra, and my entire family.”
Pavan won the Czech Masters in 2018 before beating Matt Fitzpatrick to play-off victory at the BMW International Open a year later.
Compatriot Francesco Laporta leads the South African Open at 10-under after the second round in Stellenbosch.
