The Crushers GC captain secures back-to-back titles, thrilling South African fans at Steyn City
Category: Sports
JOHANNESBURG – Bryson DeChambeau claimed victory at the inaugural LIV Golf South Africa tournament on March 22, 2026, defeating Jon Rahm on the first playoff hole. The dramatic finish capped off a week filled with excitement, emotion, and record attendance at The Club at Steyn City, making it one of the most memorable events on the LIV Golf calendar.
DeChambeau, who shot a final round of 66, finished the tournament tied with Rahm at 26-under par after four rounds. The playoff was decided on the par-5 18th hole, where DeChambeau, after pulling his drive into the muddy left rough, made a remarkable recovery with a fairway wood that landed just 12 feet from the hole. Rahm, who had an impressive 8-under 63 on the final day, found himself unable to match DeChambeau’s birdie after hitting his second shot into a greenside bunker.
"Just got to say I love everybody. Thank you for supporting," DeChambeau said, visibly emotional after his victory. "South Africa was unbelievable. I mean, got to be the best LIV event we've ever had." This win marked DeChambeau's fifth title on the LIV Golf circuit and his second consecutive victory, following his triumph at the previous event.
The Crushers GC, which includes teammates Paul Casey, Charles Howell III, and Anirban Lahiri, also secured the team title, finishing at a record 76 under par, just one stroke ahead of the Southern Guards GC, who had led by nine shots at one point during the final round. Lahiri played a key role, posting an 8-under 63, which tied for the lowest round of the day.
"It's huge for our momentum," DeChambeau said about the team victory. "I said earlier this week that we just needed a little bit of time, and we'd start showing our true colors, and they went out and played stellar today, and I held it down." The Crushers' win was their league-record ninth regular-season trophy, solidifying their place at the top of LIV Golf history.
The event drew more than 100,000 spectators, making it the largest golf tournament ever held on South African soil. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was present to congratulate DeChambeau, highlighting the tournament's significance for the country. Gayton McKenzie, the South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, emphasized the broader impact of the event, stating, "What LIV Golf has done, they've showcased our country like nothing I've ever seen." The tournament's success has already led to plans for its return to Steyn City from April 22-25, 2027.
Throughout the tournament, the Southern Guards GC, featuring local stars like Louis Oosthuizen, Dean Burmester, and Branden Grace, created a thrilling atmosphere for fans. Burmester started strong, making four consecutive birdies but eventually finished tied for sixth at 22 under par. "I think South Africa showed up, and we've put on the greatest show of golf," he said, expressing pride for his home country.
Rahm’s performance was equally commendable, but the playoff loss marked his fourth consecutive playoff defeat since joining LIV Golf. He remains the points leader for the season, with a comfortable margin over DeChambeau. "It’s tough to keep finding yourself there and not winning, but I’m proud of the way I played this week," Rahm said.
The tournament also showcased impressive individual performances, with Thomas Detry, Abraham Ancer, and Branden Grace all finishing tied for third at 23 under par. The event's scoring average was 67.76, the sixth-lowest recorded at a LIV Golf tournament, with a remarkable 47 bogey-free rounds.
DeChambeau's emotional victory was underscored by personal challenges he faced during the week. "A lot has happened. I'm just so grateful for my team, the Crushers, everybody supporting me," he said. His ability to channel those emotions into a winning performance resonated with fans and players alike.
The atmosphere at Steyn City was electric, with thousands attending the After Play concert featuring DJ Calvin Harris, which capped off an unforgettable weekend. Fans from all walks of life came together to celebrate golf and the vibrant culture of South Africa.
With the LIV Golf season continuing, the next event is scheduled for Mexico City from April 16-19, 2026. DeChambeau's victory cements his status among the elite players on the tour and adds to the growing excitement surrounding the LIV Golf League.
DeChambeau's win serves not just to highlight his skills but also the potential for LIV Golf to transform the global golf scene, particularly with events like South Africa's making waves. The league's commitment to providing thrilling competitions and engaging experiences for fans is evident, and the future looks bright for both players and spectators alike.