Issued by the Presidency
19 June 2001
President Mbeki telephoned Retief Goosen last night to congratulate him on behalf of all South Africans for winning one of the greatest prizes in world golf.
Showing real mettle, Retief Goosen took the 101st US Open Golf title in a magnificent fight-back in a play-off against Mark Brooks.
The President commends Retief on the nerves of steel that he displayed to win his first major title. Retief is now ranked among the greats of South African golf, alongside others such as Ernie Els and Gary Player who have both won this title on occasion.
The President commends Retief for his humility when accepting the award and his message of thanks to people at home.
The President is certain that Retief returns home a champion and a positive role model of hope to all of our country's youth.
Enquiries:
Tasneem Carrim
Communications
The Presidency
Tel: +27 12 319 1500
Fax: +27 12 323 6080
Cell: +27 (0) 83 650 7119
e-mail: tasneem@po.gov.za
tcarrim@mweb.co.za.