David Puig, a rising star in the LIV Golf world, is preparing for the Saudi Open with the goal of securing a place in the upcoming PGA Championship. He is one of five LIV Golf players competing in this week’s Saudi Open on the Asian Tour, as he strives to qualify for the prestigious PGA Championship, scheduled to take place between May 16 and 19 at Valhalla in Kentucky.
Following the recent excitement of The Masters, the anticipation for the year’s second Major is building up. Valhalla, the chosen venue for the PGA Championship, has hosted the event three times in the past. Known for attracting the strongest field among the four men’s Majors, the tournament draws former champions, recent victors of other significant events, PGA Tour winners from the past year, and successful qualifiers from the PGA of America. The event also extends invitations to the top 100 players in the world rankings the week before the championship, further ensuring a high-caliber lineup.
While LIV Golf does not offer world ranking points, performances on other tours, such as the Asian Tour, can significantly impact a player’s world ranking. Puig’s career trajectory on the Asian Tour, with two professional victories at the International Series Singapore and the Malaysian Open, has propelled him to a current world ranking of 108th. His impressive run also includes a runner-up finish at the International Series Macau, positioning him as a strong contender for a PGA Championship invite.
Joining Puig at the Saudi Open are fellow LIV Golf players Andy Ogletree, Henrik Stenson, Eugenio Chacarra, and Peter Uihlein. However, with the highest-ranked player, Ogletree, at 206th, securing qualification via world rankings presents a challenge. Despite the odds, Puig stands out as the most promising contender and is poised to make a compelling case for entry into the PGA Championship at the Riyadh Golf Club.
As the golfing community eagerly watches Puig’s quest for PGA Championship qualification, the anticipation for the upcoming tournament continues to grow. The determination and skill of LIV Golf professionals are undoubtedly on display, promising an exciting season ahead. With the PGA Championship drawing nearer, golf enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the journey of these talented athletes as they vie for a coveted spot in the revered tournament.