Burmester Brings the Heat: Stinger GC Ready to Make Waves in Miami

Miami. Burmester. Doral. It’s a reunion we’ve been waiting for.

Defending champion Dean Burmester returns to the site of his biggest LIV Golf moment, as the 2025 season heads stateside for the first time. Expect heat, hype, and high stakes as Stinger GC rolls into Trump National Doral with one goal — to make a statement.

This week, the action heads to the legendary Trump National Doral, known for its punishing setup and nicknamed the “Blue Monster” for good reason. It’s long, it’s tough, and it demands precision from the first tee to the final putt.

After a short break to reset, Burmester is back to defend his title where it all came together last year.

“The break was great for me," Burmester said. "I took some time away from the game, went on holiday with my family—spent a few days in Dubai. It was a good mental refresh and recharge, especially knowing I'd have a lot of obligations coming back to Miami to defend. It helped me mentally prepare.”

Reflecting on his victory last year, Burmester admits the emotions are still strong.

“It's special," he said. "The memories of what happened about a year ago—almost to the day—mean a lot to me. It was the biggest win of my career. Beating Sergio in the playoff, reliving that as I drove through the gates again... it's all still vivid.

“I remember leaving with my son in the car, having the trophy with us, just chatting—it’s one of those moments I’ll never forget. It was emotional, too. Making the decision to come to LIV was a big one, and winning in Miami validated it. Having my family there—the reason I made the move—made it even more meaningful.”

The Blue Monster is no joke. And Burmester knows exactly what he's dealing with as he gears up to defend his title on one of the most demanding tracks in the LIV Golf League.

“It’s not called the Blue Monster for nothing," Burmester. "The tees are blue and that’s part of the name, but really it’s the word ‘monster’ that sticks. It’s a long golf course—right in front of you, no tricks—but the wind and the water make it a beast. There’s water in play on almost every hole, and it plays pretty firm around the greens with a touch of Bermuda rough.”

He added: “If you strike it well and control your golf ball, you’ll get birdie chances, but you’ve got to take them. The greens are really quick and slopey—it’s a challenge, visually and mentally. It plays with you. It’s a long slog and yeah, it’s a big boy golf course. I’m proud to have put my name on that wall here.”

Adjusting to the Florida conditions adds another layer to the challenge.

“It’s humid, and the greens are pretty grainy—classic Bermuda," Burmester said. "When I lived in Florida it was easier to deal with, but I’ve focused on speed and getting used to the grain. Reading the lines right and getting the pace is key. I feel pretty comfortable, but that’s been my focus this week.”

Doral is no place to fake it. It's a course that separates the fearless from the rest. It’s all about grit, ball-striking, and confidence. And if there’s one team built for that kind of challenge—it’s Stinger GC.