The announcement marks a disappointing end to a remarkable chapter for South African golf, particularly for Louis Oosthuizen and Branden Grace, who represented the Southern Guards on the controversial breakaway circuit.

The so-called rebel league had been preparing for a relaunch this week under the LIV 2.0 banner. However, those plans were reportedly scrapped at the 11th hour following an exodus of several high-profile players, leaving the future of the competition in serious doubt.

For the Southern Guards, the uncertainty has now become reality, with the team confirming that it will cease operations.

Charl Schwartzel. Photo: LIV Golf

In an emotional statement, Southern Guards general manager Richard Glover reflected on the journey, describing the closure as an incredibly sad moment for everyone associated with the team.

He said the organisation remained immensely proud of what it had achieved and the foundations it had built during its time on the LIV Golf circuit. Glover also paid tribute to the players, commercial partners, team staff and supporters who had been part of what he described as an extraordinary rollercoaster ride.

Dean Burmester during LIV Golf South Africa. Photo: LIV Golf

However, it was the South African golf fans who received special recognition, particularly those who turned out in their thousands at Steyn City for LIV Golf's South African event.

The tournament provided some unforgettable moments, with the passionate home support creating an atmosphere that left a lasting impression on players and officials alike.

Glover recalled the emotion of the opening day, when players were moved to tears on the first tee, and the unforgettable scenes around the 18th green on the final day, when thousands of fans joined in singing the national anthem.

Louis Oosthuizen. Photo: LIV Golf

He said the tournament had become far more than just another stop on the international golf calendar.

“It was a celebration of South African golf, its people and the pride of representing our country on the world stage,” Glover said. “It was special. It was emotional. And above all, it was a reminder of why we love sport.”

For Oosthuizen and Grace, the closure brings an end to their association with a team that carried South African identity onto one of golf's most talked-about platforms.

Branden Grace. Photo: LIV Golf

While the Southern Guards’ chapter may have come to an end, the memories of those electric scenes at Steyn City, and the opportunity to see some of the country's biggest golfing stars competing on home soil, will undoubtedly remain.

It is a disappointing farewell especially given the phenomenal success of LIV Golf South African earlier in the year bring much and excitement and commerce to the country.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg