Carrera rides LIV Golf momentum into Singapore Open after DeChambeau call-up

SINGAPORE - Mexican rising star Luis Carrera arrives at the Singapore Open presented by The Business Times riding the momentum of a statement moment on one of golf’s biggest stages, after stepping in for Crushers GC Captain Bryson DeChambeau at LIV Golf Mexico last week. 

Drafted in on home soil to replace the two-time U.S. Open champion for the final round, the 25-year-old faced a baptism of fire — competing under intense scrutiny while sharing the spotlight with some of the game’s biggest names. It was a test of composure unlike any other, and one Carrera believes has accelerated his development. 

“It was amazing. The atmosphere was unbelievable, having my family and friends out there meant a lot,” he said. “I was definitely nervous, especially on Sunday, but I think I handled it pretty well. It’s a good step forward, knowing I can compete on that kind of stage.” 

Adding to the challenge, Carrera found himself alongside major champions Charl Schwartzel and Cameron Smith — an experience he describes as both daunting and invaluable. 

“Just playing alongside those guys already brings a lot of pressure. That was enough on its own,” he added. 

His appearance in Mexico marked the second time Carrera has stepped onto the LIV Golf stage, having previously filled in for a team at LIV Golf Dallas last year, further underlining his growing reputation as a player ready to seize opportunity when it arises. 

Now in Singapore for his first International Series start of the season, Carrera is aiming to translate that experience into results. Since making his debut on the circuit in 2024, he has steadily built momentum, highlighted by a career-best tied-19 finish at International Series Qatar. 

Early signs at Sentosa Golf Club have been promising. The Mexican opened with a two-under-par 70 in a field featuring leading names from LIV Golf and the Asian Tour, showcasing composed ball-striking in testing conditions. 

“I felt like I played the tougher holes really solidly. I made good swings where it mattered,” he said. “I didn’t hole as many putts as I would’ve liked, so that’s probably where I left a few shots, but overall the ball-striking was good.” 

Carrera’s journey to this stage has been built on steady progression. A two-time winner on the Sunshine Tour, he claimed his maiden professional title at the FBC Zim Open shortly after graduating from Q-School, before adding a second victory at the Kit Kat Cash & Carry Pro-Am. 

With The International Series continuing to provide a global platform and direct pathway to the top tier of the sport, Carrera is eager to capitalise on every opportunity. 

“Of course. If I get the opportunities, I’d love to play as many as I can — whether that’s through invites or other ways,” he said. “That pathway is definitely something I’m aiming for.” 

The International Series has launched an upgraded website and app, bringing users closer to the action with live leaderboards, player rankings, and full tournament coverage. 

(Top image courtesy of Asian Tour)