Gary Player congratulated Bryson DeChambeau on his victory at the record-breaking LIV Golf South Africa event, praising the thrilling competition and South Africa’s hosting prowess. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
Image: Michael Sherman/IOL
Time heals all wounds, and that certainly seems to be the case with Gary Player and LIV Golf as The Black Knight posted a congratulatory message for the South African event and its winner, Bryson DeChambeau.
The 90-year-old Player was a vocal critic of the Saudi-funded breakaway LIV Golf Tour when it launched in 2022.
Until this year, the tournaments were 54 holes, but have since increased to the standard 72-hole (four-round) events.
DeChambeau won the inaugural LIV Golf South Africa event on Sunday, beating Jon Rahm in a playoff.
“Many congratulations to Bryson DeChambeau on a magnificent and thrilling victory here in South Africa! What a spectacle for the game of golf,” said Player on X.
“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. 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.
The event was held at The Club at Steyn City, and welcomed over 100,000 spectators throughout the week. It made it the most well-attended golf event in South Africa ever, beating out the Gary Player-hosted Nedbank Golf Challenge, which held the previous record at just over 76,000.
“To showcase our beautiful land, our passionate supporters, and our rich golfing heritage on the world stage is something truly special. 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. 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. GP"