Charl began playing professionally in 2002 when he was 18 and qualified for the European Tour later that same year, giving him the distinction of becoming the second-youngest South African ever to qualify for the European Tour.

Between 2002 and 2011, Charl has claimed six major international victories, including the 2006 Dunhill Championship, the 2007 Open de Espana, the 2008 Madrid Masters, 2010 African Open, and the 2010 and 2011 Joburg Open.

In 2011 Charl won The Masters Tournament and became the first-ever golfer to birdie the last four holes on the way to lifting the championship. His 6-under 66 score was the best closing round at The Masters since 1989.