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Thriston Lawrence of South Africa plays his second shot on the 18th hole during the continuation of the weather delayed third round on day four of the Omega European Masters 2025 at Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club on August 31.
Thriston Lawrence has quickly emerged as one of golf’s notable stars, blending consistency on the DP World Tour with breakthroughs in majors. From his roots in South Africa to his recent triumphs in Europe and beyond, Lawrence’s career path offers plenty of reasons to pay attention.
Here are five things to know about the 2025 Omega European Masters winner.
1. He Was a Standout Amateur Before Turning Pro
Lawrence’s amateur career included back-to-back wins at the South African Amateur Championship in 2013 and 2014, a feat not achieved in decades. He also added the prestigious Lytham Trophy in 2014, signaling his potential against international competition.
In 2015, after turning professional, Lawrence captured the MENA Tour Order of Merit, setting the stage for his rise. His early wins on developmental tours gave him the experience to handle pressure and prepare for bigger stages.
2. First Winner of the DP World Tour Era
Lawrence made history in 2021 at the Joburg Open, becoming the first winner in the new DP World Tour era. Despite the event being shortened to 36 holes due to weather and COVID restrictions, his dominance—back-to-back 65s—was undeniable.
The victory didn’t just give him a trophy—it gave him exemptions and recognition as a player ready to compete at the highest levels. It marked the moment he went from a prospect to a fixture on tour.
3. Multiple Wins on the DP World Tour
In 2022, Lawrence showcased his growing consistency. He claimed the Omega European Masters, defeating Matt Wallace in a playoff, and later that year added the Investec South African Open to his resume.
That season earned him the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year award, underscoring his rapid ascent on the DP World Tour. With multiple titles in just a few seasons, he has built a reputation as a closer in big events.
4. Success in the Alps and on the Major Stage
One of Lawrence’s signature strengths has been conquering challenging conditions. At altitude in Switzerland, he proved his mastery by winning the Omega European Masters again in 2025, finishing 22-under.
In 2024, he also impressed on the major stage, surging into contention at the Open Championship at Royal Troon. His 4th-place finish showed he could hang with the world’s best on golf’s toughest stages, raising expectations for more major success to come.
5. Dual Membership and Global Ambitions
By finishing third in the 2024 Race to Dubai, Lawrence secured dual membership on both the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour. That opportunity broadened his horizons, even as he adjusted to new courses and competition in the U.S.
While results on the PGA Tour have been mixed so far, Lawrence has the skill set and mindset to grow. His global ambitions reflect the modern golfer’s path–balancing schedules across continents while chasing trophies that build legacy.
Alyssa Polczynski Alyssa Polczynski is a multimedia journalist covering Major League Baseball for Heavy.com. She has experience as an editorial producer for MLB.com and contributed to the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). More about Alyssa Polczynski
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