Golf fans are quickly getting to know the name Aldrich Potgieter—but can you actually pronounce it? You're not alone if you've stumbled over it. Here's your quick guide to saying it right, plus a look at where this rising star comes from.

The 21-year-old South African burst onto the scene at the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club, heading into the weekend tied for second at 3-under par. That put him ahead of heavyweights like Scottie Scheffler, turning heads across the golf world. It was only the second time in six major appearances that Potgieter made the cut, but at his age, expect many more big moments ahead.

How to pronounce "Aldrich Potgieter"

Let's break it down. His first name, Aldrich, is pronounced "ALL-drick"—the "ch" makes a hard "ck" sound. As for his last name, say it like "POT-gee-tur," dropping the "i" entirely. The emphasis lands on the front: "POT" rhymes with "flower pot." Simple enough once you know it, right?

Potgieter probably doesn't mind if you get it wrong—he's still new to the major spotlight. He claimed his first PGA Tour win at the 2025 Rocket Classic, but this PGA Championship marks only his third major appearance in three years and his first ever at this event. With a hot start like this, his name is one you'll want to have down pat.

Family roots and background

Potgieter hails from Pretoria, South Africa, where he grew up speaking Afrikaans at home. At age eight, his family moved to Australia, though he briefly returned to South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep swinging the clubs. Now based in the United States, he's making his mark—with a Tour win, six major starts, and a breakout performance that has everyone talking.

Whether you're rooting for his game or just want to cheer him on without fumbling his name, you're now in the know. Keep an eye on this young talent—he's just getting started.