A guide to pronouncing Aldrich Potgieter's full name and family origin

Golf fans are quickly getting to know Aldrich Potgieter's name. Can you pronounce it?

The 21-year-old golfer positioned himself as an unlikely contender at the PGA Championship after a hot start at Aronimink Golf Club, entering the weekend tied for second at 3-under par and leading a slew of notable names, including Scottie Scheffler.

It was only the second time in six career appearances that Potgieter made the cut in a major, though at his age, the rising name could have many more impressive performances in his future.

Here's a guide to pronouncing Potgieter's name and a look at his family origin.

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How do you pronounce Aldrich Potgieter's name?

Potgieter's first name is a bit tricky, as the "ch" is pronounced as a solid "ck" sound, making it "ALL-drick."

As for his last name, it's pronounced, "POT-gee-tur," as if the "I" isn't there. The emphasis goes on the front end of the name, with "pot" pronounced as it's pronounced in "flower pot."

Simple enough?

The 21-year-old probably wouldn't blame anyone for not knowing how to pronounce his name right now, as he hasn't been a fixture in majors. While he does have a PGA Tour win under his belt after a victory at the 2025 Rocket Classic, Potgieter is making only his third major appearance in the last three years and his first appearance at the PGA Championship.

MORE: What to know about Aldrich Potgieter

Aldrich Potgieter nationality

Potgieter is South African. He was born in Pretoria, South Africa, and he initially grew up speaking Afrikaans with his family.

Potgieter moved to Australia along with his family when he was eight, though he briefly returned to South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic so he could continue golfing. 

Over in the United States, Potgieter has started to make his mark with a PGA Tour win, six major appearances and now a breakthrough start to the PGA Championship in the greater Philadelphia area. 

MORE: Where Aldrich Potgieter would rank among youngest PGA Championship winners

Aldrich Potgieter career earnings

Potgieter made just over $3 million in his first year on the PGA Tour, which included a win in the Rocket Classic, and he's already made more than $1.5 million in 2026 as he continues to break through.