Golfer Andrea Pavan ‘thankful to be alive’ after reportedly falling down lift shaft

Italian golfer Andrea Pavan is expressing gratitude for his life after a serious incident in which he reportedly fell three floors down a lift shaft in South Africa. The 36-year-old, known for being a two-time European Tour winner, was scheduled to compete in the South African Open Championship at Stellenbosch Golf Club but had to withdraw following the accident on Wednesday. His former coach has indicated that Pavan is in good spirits despite the ordeal. This incident highlights the unexpected dangers athletes can face off the course, and Pavan's resilience is commendable as he focuses on recovery.

• Andrea Pavan fell three floors down a lift shaft in South Africa.
• He is a two-time European Tour winner.
• Pavan was scheduled to play in the South African Open Championship.
• He withdrew from the tournament following the incident.
• His former coach reported that he is in good spirits.