CJ du Plessis is one of those resilient talents on the Sunshine Tour who proves that hard work eventually pays off. If you follow South African golf, you might know him as the long-hitting pro who finally broke through with a heartfelt victory after a decade of grinding. But how much is he actually worth.
CJ du Plessis Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cornel “CJ” du Plessis |
| Date of Birth | February 4, 1991 |
| Age | 34 |
| Nationality | South African |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (approx. 1.83 m) |
| Turned Pro | 2013 |
| Current Tour | Sunshine Tour |
| Net Worth | Approx. $300,000 – $500,000 |
| Career Earnings | R4,178,000+ (approx. $230,000 USD) |
| Relationship Status | Private |
| Residence | South Africa |
Early Career
CJ du Plessis didn’t just appear out of nowhere; he had a solid foundation in the amateur ranks before chasing the big leagues. Growing up in South Africa, a country known for producing major champions like Ernie Els and Gary Player, CJ developed a powerful game early on.
He enjoyed a “decorated amateur career” that set the stage for his transition to the paid ranks.
His amateur days were characterized by a loose, long-hitting style that drew attention. However, like many young talents, he had to learn that power isn’t everything.
He spent these formative years refining his course management, moving from a “grip it and rip it” mentality to a more structured approach.
This period was crucial for building the mental toughness he would later need during his long wait for a professional victory.
Professional Career
CJ turned professional in 2013, embarking on what would become a true test of patience. For nearly a decade, he carried the label of a “journeyman”—a term for players who grind week in and week out without always grabbing the headlines.
He played consistently on the Sunshine Tour, racking up over a dozen top-10 finishes but missing that elusive trophy.
His breakthrough finally came in July 2023 at the SunBet Challenge Wild Coast. In a dramatic finish, he sank a massive eagle putt and followed it up with a clutch birdie to win by one stroke.
This victory was incredibly emotional, as he dedicated it to his late coach, Raymond Earle, who had passed away just a week prior. Since then, CJ has continued to compete, focusing on consistency and trying to secure his place among South Africa’s elite golfers.
CJ du Plessis’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, CJ du Plessis’s net worth is estimated to be between $300,000 and $500,000. This figure is built primarily on his tournament winnings from the Sunshine Tour and smaller local events, rather than massive global endorsement deals.
Career Earnings
| Year/Season | Earnings (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023/2024 | R450,000+ | Includes SunBet Challenge Win |
| 2021/2022 | R300,000+ | Multiple Top 10 finishes |
| Career Total | R4,178,418+ | Approx. total since 2013 |
Career Stats
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Tournament Wins | 1 (SunBet Challenge 2023) |
| Top 10 Finishes | 20+ |
| Best World Ranking | Top 500 (approx.) |
| Low Round | 64 |
| Turned Pro | 2013 |
FAQs
1. Who is CJ du Plessis?
CJ du Plessis plays professional golf representing South Africa, primarily on the Sunshine Tour. He began his professional journey after he represented his country in multiple amateur test matches against international teams.
2. What are CJ du Plessis’s best tournament results?
The golfer secured a notable fifth-place finish at the 2021 South African Open Championship. He also finished as the runner-up at the 2016 Zambia Sugar Open and the Lombard Insurance Classic during that season.
3. When did he turn professional?
Du Plessis joined the professional golf ranks following a strong amateur career. Before this transition, he played for South Africa in competitive test matches against nations like France and Scotland.
4. What challenges has the golfer faced?
He tore his left lung during the Joburg Open, which required six weeks of recovery. This major injury hurt his confidence and performance on the golf course for the remainder of that year.
5. What is his highest world ranking?
Du Plessis reached his career-best Official World Golf Ranking of 423rd. He continues to compete in tournaments to improve his standing, although his current rank sits lower on the global leaderboard.
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