Bryson DeChambeau had tears in his eyes as he made LIV Golf history. He edged out John Rahm on the first extra hole at LIV's first event in South Africa, and that struck a chord with SA's own golfing legend, Gary Player.

Player took to X on Monday to reflect on the outcome at Steyn City in Johannesburg, and what it meant for the country and the sport.

“Many congratulations to Bryson DeChambeau on a magnificent and thrilling victory here in South Africa! What a spectacle for the game of golf," the 90-year-old congratulated the American.

"To watch two of the world’s finest competitors going head-to-head in a playoff is exactly the kind of drama that lifts our sport and captivates fans at the course and around the globe. But I must say, it fills my heart with tremendous pride to see South Africa hosting such a world-class event,” said the 24-time PGA Tour winner.

And it's easy to see why Player would feel proud. After all, the inaugural LIV Golf South Africa became the most-attended professional golf event in the country’s history, drawing over 100,000 fans across four days.

“This is a nation with a deep love for the game, a country that has produced champions, and a place where the spirit of golf runs strong. To showcase our beautiful land, our passionate supporters, and our rich golfing heritage on the world stage is something truly special,” said Gary Player.

The 90-year-old also acknowledged the homegrown team's effort in the tournament.

Gary Player Highlights Southern Guards’ Effort

Speaking about the team result, and what it could lead to, Gary Player said:

“I was also delighted to see the Southern Guards perform so admirably, coming so close to securing the team title. They represented themselves and South Africa with great distinction.”

Southern Guards GC finished second at LIV Golf South Africa, marking their home debut from 19–22 March 2026 at Steyn City. The team, formerly known as Stinger GC, entered the season under a new name with the same all-South African lineup.

They ended the week at 75-under, one stroke behind Crushers GC. The result follows their season run, with finishes of tied eighth in Riyadh, fourth in Adelaide, fourth in Hong Kong, and fifth in Singapore.

With that, the team has continued to deliver steady results, led by Louis Oosthuizen, alongside Dean Burmester, Charl Schwartzel, and Branden Grace.

The 24-time-PGA Tour winner further linked the moment to the future of the game, adding:

“Just as the Nedbank Golf Challenge does, I have no doubt this event will also help inspire the next generation of young South Africans to pick up a club and dream big.”

The league has already confirmed it will return to South Africa in 2027 after its debut event.

Was Bryson DeChambeau’s win about more than just golf? What do you think? Leave a comment.

Read more at Club Golf!

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi