Golf ‘not about hitting it 400 yards’, says Bryson DeChambeau after surging to top of LIV Golf leaderboard in Singapore after second round
By Marko Tankosic
SME News Balkan. Bryson DeChambeau surged to the top of the leaderboard after the second round of LIV Golf Singapore, holding a three-shot lead at 10-under-par heading into the weekend at Sentosa Golf Club.
The American produced an impressive six-under 65 in the second round to break away from the four-way tie that concluded the opening day. His performance featured six birdies and an eagle, with his only blemish coming in the form of a bogey on the 15th hole. DeChambeau began the day steadily with back-to-back pars before gaining momentum with birdies on the third, fourth and eighth holes. As he prepares for the final two rounds, the Crushers GC captain emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and controlling what he can on the course.
“Focus on my golf and what I can control,” DeChambeau said when discussing his approach for the weekend. “You can’t get too wrapped up in what everyone else is doing. If I start the ball on the right lines and roll my putts well, I’ll give myself a good chance.”
The power hitter also highlighted the importance of balance in his game rather than relying solely on distance.
“Golf isn’t just about hitting it 400 yards. You need a strong wedge game, good iron play and solid putting. This course demands control more than pure power.”
Five players remain in contention just three shots behind DeChambeau. Thomas Detry, Jon Rahm, Louis Oosthuizen, Lee Westwood and Richard T. Lee are all tied for second place as the tournament heads into the decisive stages. Detry continued his strong form after finishing runner-up at LIV Golf Hong Kong last week. The Belgian delivered one of the most memorable moments of the day with a chip-in eagle from around 40 yards on the 18th hole, propelling him into the chasing pack.
“This week and last week couldn’t be more different,” Detry said. “I enjoy both types of courses. Whether it’s hitting long irons into par fours or playing precise wedge shots into small greens, it’s a fun challenge.”
Meanwhile, Rahm quietly extended his remarkable consistency on the LIV Golf circuit. The Spaniard recorded his 23rd consecutive round under par, setting a new league record. Rahm carded 11 straight pars from the fifth to the 17th hole and admitted he actually felt his performance was stronger than during the opening round despite missing several birdie opportunities.
“I played really well today,” Rahm said. “It actually felt better than yesterday, but the putts just didn’t drop. After the one I made on the sixth, I had plenty of chances but couldn’t convert them.”
Another historic moment came from Graeme McDowell. The Northern Irishman became the first player in LIV Golf history to record two hole-in-ones on the tour after producing another ace during Friday’s round.
McDowell, who also made a hole-in-one last week in Hong Kong, finished the second round tied for 15th at three-under-par.
“It cost me a very expensive bottle of wine last week, and I guess it’s going to cost me another one,” McDowell joked. “But I’m looking forward to it.”
With DeChambeau leading and several experienced challengers close behind, the final rounds in Singapore promise a compelling battle for the LIV Golf title.
