Italian golfer Andrea Pavan is recovering in the hospital after a serious accident in South Africa, and those close to him say he is fortunate to be alive. The 36-year-old fell three floors down an elevator shaft while staying at private accommodation during the week of the Investec South African Open in Cape Town. The DP World Tour confirmed that he withdrew from the tournament due to injury. An encouraging update has since come from his former college coach, J. T. Higgins. Speaking to Golfchannel. com, Higgins said, “By all accounts, he’s in good spirits, thankful to be alive and FaceTiming with his kids. ” The comment has reassured fans and fellow players who were shocked by the news.
What happened to Andrea Pavan? Inside the elevator fall and medical recovery
Because of the extent of his injuries, Pavan is expected to remain in South Africa for several weeks before doctors evaluate whether he can safely travel back to the United States. The fundraiser notes that the money raised will go toward “medical expenses, extended stay in South Africa, transportation back home to the Dallas area, ongoing medical care and hopefully some extra to ease the uncertainty of his professional golf future.” More than $27,000 has been raised so far.
Pavan turned professional in 2010 and has recorded eight professional victories, including two on the DP World Tour. He has competed in three major championships, with his most notable win coming at the 2019 BMW International Open after a playoff win over Matt Fitzpatrick. Pavan is currently ranked world No. 249 and most recently competed at the Qatar Masters earlier this month, where he missed the cut.
For now, competition is secondary. The priority is recovery, rehabilitation and returning home safely to his wife and three children.
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