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Lucas Today
By the People, for the People
Golfer Seriously Injured in Freak Elevator Accident
Andrea Pavan fell down an elevator shaft at his hotel in South Africa, requiring hours of surgery.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Andrea Pavan, a 36-year-old professional golfer from Italy, sustained serious injuries after falling down an elevator shaft at his hotel in South Africa. Pavan called for an elevator, but when the doors opened, the elevator had not reached his floor. He stepped into the opening and fell multiple floors, requiring hours of surgery, though his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Why it matters
Freak accidents like this are a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and maintenance in hotels and other public spaces. Pavan's injury could have been much worse, and it raises concerns about the potential risks golfers and other travelers face when relying on elevators and other building infrastructure.
The details
According to reports, Pavan called for an elevator at his hotel in South Africa, where he was staying to compete in a DP World Tour event. When the elevator doors opened, the car had not reached his floor, and Pavan stepped into the opening and fell multiple floors, sustaining serious injuries. He required hours of surgery, though his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
- On February 26, 2026, Pavan was staying at a hotel in South Africa ahead of a DP World Tour event.
The players
Andrea Pavan
A 36-year-old professional golfer from Italy who has won twice on the DP World Tour, formerly known as the European Tour.
What’s next
It is unclear what the next steps are for Pavan's recovery and return to professional golf.
The takeaway
This freak accident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of hotel safety and maintenance, as well as the potential risks that professional athletes face in their travels. While Pavan's injuries are serious, the fact that they are not life-threatening is fortunate, and his recovery will be closely watched by the golf community.
