The escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran is beginning to ripple far beyond the battlefield, with global travel disruptions now affecting the sporting calendar.
Widespread airspace closures and grounded flights have left several athletes stranded, complicating international travel that has long been routine for professional competitors.
For many sportsmen and women, frequent long-haul trips are part of the job. However, rising geopolitical tensions have made cross-border movement increasingly unpredictable, forcing teams and organisers to make contingency plans at short notice.
In Stellenbosch, the Stellenbosch Golf Club is hosting the Investec SA Open, featuring leading local players alongside international competitors from the DP World Tour.
Tournament organisers said measures were put in place to ensure the safety and travel arrangements of players needing to move in and out of the country amid the uncertainty.
Meanwhile, attention is also turning to the HSBC Sevens Series, which resumes next weekend in Vancouver. Teams are closely monitoring travel routes as disruptions continue to affect flight schedules.
While the action on the field may remain fast-paced, getting there has become the real obstacle.