“The X Factor Australia” finalist Jai Waetford might not have bagged the coveted title in the show, but he already has an international star for a fan. Justin Bieber has announced that he’s a fan of the 14-year-old Australian student, saying that he was really impressed by his talent.

Jai was one of the favourites on the Channel 7 talent competition show, ultimately placing third behind winner Dami Im and runner-up Taylor Henderson on the finale on October 28.

During his audition, he sang two songs for the judges. He first sang “Different Worlds” by Jes Hudak, but due to judge Ronan Keating’s insistence, he also played his original song “Don’t Let Me Go.” He impressed the judges so much that Ronan had to stand on the desk twice.

And in a rare moment, he also made the fun-loving Redfoo cry.

Although he wasn’t able to nab the top prize, his mentor Ronan assured him that he can turn to him if he needed support in his career.

Now it looks like that Jai has been given a boost in popularity by Justin Bieber when the Canadian heartthrob praised him on his Instagram page.

“Make the music you want to make Jai Waetford god has really blessed you. I’m a fan and I haven’t been impressed like this in a very long time,” (sic) Justin captioned a screenshot of Jai’s audition.

Jai, who has been compared to the 19-year-old singer during the entire competition, was shocked that Justin has noticed him.

“I was so excited to be noticed by Justin Bieber on social media,” he told news.com.au. “I never thought a moment like this would ever happen to me. I mean I’m just a 14-year-old kid from Campbelltown.”

He has released his first single “Your Eyes” on iTunes, and will be embarking on a national tour with the other “The X Factor” finalists soon.

Jai’s audition:

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