By Dickson Bandera
Professional golfer Morton Kombai tragically died on the spot Sunday night in a road traffic accident involving a vehicle carrying five players. The crash occurred at the intersection of Samora Machel Avenue and Seventh Street in Harare.
The players had just participated in the 2025 FBC Zimbabwe Open Golf Tournament, which featured both local and international competitors.
The other four occupants of the vehicle — Zimbabweans Tonderai Masunga and Biggie Chibvuri (who was driving), Victor Kachepatsonga of Malawi, and Lucky Ayisa of Ghana — sustained serious injuries and are receiving treatment at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Kensington Medical Centre.
In a statement released Monday, the Zimbabwe Golf Association and the ZIM Open Committee expressed deep sorrow over Kombai’s passing.
“We are heartbroken to confirm the passing on of Morton Kombai, a respected member of the Zimbabwe Professional Golfers Association (ZPGA) who died on the scene,” the statement read.
“Based in Zvishavane and representing Rolland Park, Morton was known not only for his talent on the course but also for his humility, dedication, and love for the game. He is survived by his wife and two children. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow professionals. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this painful time.
“As the ZIM OPEN Committee and the Zimbabwe Golf Association, we are devastated by this loss and remain in close contact with the relevant medical teams and authorities. We salute all five players for their commitment to the sport and the spirit they brought to the 2025 tournament,” read the statement.
The 2025 FBC Zimbabwe Open Golf Tournament, a key fixture on the African professional golf calendar, attracted top talent from across the continent and beyond. It offered a premier platform for professionals to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level on Zimbabwean soil.
However, this year’s event will be remembered not only for its competitive spirit but also for the profound tragedy that struck the local golf community.
May Morton Kombai’s soul rest in peace, and may those injured make a swift and full recovery.
