Burmester ended fourth in the individual competition at Trump National Golf Club after carding a superb final-round 67 to finish on 18-under-par, six shots behind the winner.

Australia’s Lucas Herbert, representing Ripper GC, claimed the title on 24-under-par following a closing round of four-under. Spain’s Sergio Garcia from Fireballs GC finished second, four shots adrift, while American star Bryson DeChambeau of Crushers GC took third on 19-under-par after an impressive final-round 66.

Burmester remained firmly in the hunt throughout the tournament, continuing a strong season in which Southern Guards GC have already celebrated several podium finishes in the team competition.

His Southern Guards teammate Branden Grace finished in a tie for 21st on nine-under-par, while former Masters champion Charl Schwartzel shared 26th place on seven-under. Team captain Louis Oosthuizen endured a tougher week and finished 42nd on three-over-par after a final-round 73.

Reflecting on his performance, Burmester admitted that enjoying the golf course certainly helped bring out his best golf.

Dean Burmester - Charles Laberge/LIV Golf

“I think it’s a great golf course – it’s kind of a links-style layout, very American and tough,” said the Grey College product.

“Obviously the scoring was great and I think we got good weather, which helped with the scoring, but the course was in perfect condition.”

While pleased with another strong result, Burmester felt there were still a few missed opportunities out on the course.

“Obviously, I’m happy to finish with another top 10 and another top 5, so I’m pleased about that. There’s a little disappointment with the finish, but life goes on.”

Branden Grace - Mateo Villalba/LIV Golf

He added that both his long game and putting clicked at important moments during the tournament.

“I had my moments with both the ball striking and the putting. When I needed to save par, I did. There were a lot of birdies and eagles too. I had four eagles for the week, which is always a nice bonus.”

Burmester also spoke confidently about the future of LIV Golf amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the breakaway tour, backing CEO Scott O'Neil and his leadership team.

“I’m confident. I’m backing Scott O’Neil and his team to go and find the investment because this is too good a product to die out.

Louis Oosthuizen - Mateo Villalba/LIV Golf

“I think a lot of the players are standing together and we all feel like we’re on the road to something where we maybe have more of a say, and something we can make truly special.”

Before heading to LIV Golf Korea later this month, Burmester revealed that he and Schwartzel will first enjoy some downtime in the Kalahari with their families.

“Charl and I are going on a beautiful trip out to the Kalahari with our families, which will be really nice. I’m looking forward to that, and then it’s back to the grind, back to work, practising and chasing the kids around school.”

The next LIV Golf event will take place at the Asiad Country Club in Korea from 28 to 31 May.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport