Richard T. Lee could draw plenty of encouragement from his standout showing at LIV Golf Singapore over the weekend, especially Bryson DeChambeau's glowing praise after the action wrapped up at Sentosa Golf Club.
DeChambeau labeled his Canadian rival "a real superstar" following a tense sudden-death playoff victory on the first extra hole at the Serapong Course.
In a shocking moment that stunned spectators, Lee missed a straightforward two-foot par putt that would have prolonged the playoff, right after DeChambeau pulled off an impressive par save despite hitting water off the tee.
"I absolutely hated seeing that for Richard," DeChambeau remarked after securing his fourth LIV Golf League title—his first since Korea last May.
"He's delivered some incredible golf lately. He's outplayed me in several rounds we've shared, and he's an exceptional talent. I was ready for one more hole against him. Winning feels amazing, but I have huge respect for Richard and how he strikes the ball."
Lee charged through the final round with four birdies over the last six holes, grabbing the lead and positioning himself for a potential upset triumph as the underdog.
DeChambeau matched him with a birdie on the 18th in regulation play, then sealed the deal in overtime.
DeChambeau continued: "He was seriously impressive. Heading into the final three holes, I figured I had a one-shot edge on the field, but watching Richard close like that—he's a true superstar, and the league should be thrilled to have him as a wild card."
Lee earned his spot in LIV Golf League via the Promotions event in January, marking him as the first Canadian to compete. This came after four strong years on the Asian Tour, where he's played since 2013 and notched three victories.
His strong finish in Singapore should help secure his league status for next year and maybe land him a roster spot on one of the 13 teams.
The league heads to South Africa next for its debut event at The Club at Steyn City.