Andrea Pavan Suffers Serious Injuries in Freak Elevator Accident During Tournament
Andrea Pavan, the accomplished Italian golfer and two-time winner on the DP World Tour, has been hospitalized following a serious accident involving an elevator shaft while in South Africa for the Investec South African Open Championship this week.
Details of the Incident
Reports indicate that Pavan, 36, fell down an elevator shaft after the doors opened at his accommodation, revealing that the elevator car was not present. According to Monday Q Info, a notable golf news account, the golfer fell approximately three stories, resulting in severe shoulder and back injuries.
- Injury Status: Although Pavan underwent surgery for several hours, sources indicate that his injuries are not life-threatening.
- Location: The accident took place at Pavan’s private accommodation in South Africa, raising concerns about safety protocols.
Withdrawal from the Tournament
Due to his injuries, Pavan was compelled to withdraw from the ongoing tournament, which commenced its opening round on Thursday. The DP World Tour confirmed the withdrawal through a spokesperson.
Support and Updates
Friends and former colleagues have expressed their support for Pavan during this challenging time. J.T. Higgins, Pavan’s former college coach, shared that Pavan is in “good spirits,” thankful for his life, and maintaining contact with his children via FaceTime. Higgins reported, “I haven’t talked to Andrea yet but I’m receiving updates on his condition.”
Injuries and Outlook
- Nature of Injuries: Back and shoulder injuries.
- Current Condition: Pavan is reportedly stable and in good spirits despite the severity of his injuries.
Pavan’s Golf Career
Andrea Pavan, currently ranking 249th in the world, has had a notable golfing career. He secured victories in two prestigious tournaments on the DP World Tour:
As of 2026, he has made three tournament appearances, including a recent stint at the Qatar Masters, where he unfortunately missed the cut.
Conclusion
Andrea Pavan’s freak accident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of life, even for professional athletes. As he recovers, the golfing community eagerly awaits updates on his health and well-being.
