Bryson DeChambeau Triumphs at LIV Golf South Africa With Playoff Victory

JOHANNESBURG – Bryson DeChambeau delivered a stunning performance on March 22, 2026, winning the LIV Golf South Africa individual title by defeating Jon Rahm on the first playoff hole. The victory marked DeChambeau's fifth career title with LIV Golf and his second consecutive win, following his earlier triumph at LIV Golf Singapore.

The event took place at The Club at Steyn City, where over 100,000 spectators gathered, making it the largest golf event ever held on South African soil. DeChambeau's emotional win was celebrated not just by his supporters, but also by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was on hand to congratulate the champion.

DeChambeau finished the tournament with a total score of 26-under par, tying with Rahm after both players posted impressive final rounds—DeChambeau shot 66, and Rahm delivered a remarkable 63 to force the playoff. The playoff was decided on the par-5 18th hole, where DeChambeau executed a brilliant fairway wood shot from the rough, landing just 12 feet from the hole for an eagle opportunity. After Rahm failed to convert his birdie attempt from a greenside bunker, DeChambeau made a two-putt birdie to seal the victory.

"I've just got to say I love everybody. Thank you for supporting. South Africa was unbelievable. I mean, got to be the best LIV event we've ever had," DeChambeau expressed tearfully after his win. His emotional response was attributed to personal challenges he faced leading up to the tournament, yet he credited his team and supporters for their encouragement throughout the week.

The Crushers GC, DeChambeau's team, also celebrated a thrilling victory, edging out the home favorite Southern Guards GC by a single stroke. The Crushers finished the tournament with a record score of 76 under par, thanks to strong performances from Anirban Lahiri, who shot a stellar 8-under 63, and Paul Casey and Charles Howell III, each contributing solid rounds of 67.

Initially, the Southern Guards appeared poised for victory, leading by nine strokes at one point during the final round. Dean Burmester, a local favorite, had a phenomenal start with four consecutive birdies, but the momentum shifted when the Crushers rallied late. "I mean, obviously a little gutted we didn't get it done, but I'm proud to be South African," Burmester said after the event. "I think South Africa showed up, and we've put on the greatest show. It's clear to see they're the greatest fans, and they came out by the thousands to support us."

The Southern Guards finished at 75 under par, a score that would have been enough to win most tournaments. Branden Grace, who tied for third place with Thomas Detry and Abraham Ancer at 23 under, acknowledged the electric atmosphere created by the local fans. "What a phenomenal up-and-down Bryson made on 18. It's one of the best weeks of my life, and to spend it with three of my best mates is phenomenal," Grace said.

The success of LIV Golf South Africa is expected to have lasting impacts, with Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie emphasizing the tournament's significance for the country. "What LIV Golf has done, they've showcased our country like nothing I've ever seen," he stated. Following the event, it was announced that LIV Golf South Africa will return to Steyn City from April 22-25, 2027, promising to build on the momentum generated this year.

DeChambeau's victory adds to his accolades and positions him favorably heading into the upcoming Masters Tournament. His recent form has made him one of the players to watch, and he expressed gratitude for the support he received from the South African crowd. "It's huge for our momentum," he said. "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."

Meanwhile, the LIV Golf season continues with its next event scheduled for Mexico City from April 16-19, 2026. Players and fans alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be another thrilling installment of the league. With the excitement generated by the South African tournament, the LIV Golf League is poised for a bright future on the global golfing stage.