A Stunning Finish at LIV Golf Adelaide
ADELAIDE, South Australia – Joaquin Niemann started the final round of LIV Golf Adelaide three strokes behind the leader, Abraham Ancer. With a clear and straightforward goal in mind, Niemann set out to "do something special." And he did just that. Niemann delivered the day’s only bogey-free round, firing a 7-under 65 to catch up to Ancer, who had been leading for most of the day but stumbled with three bogeys on his final five holes. Niemann’s total of 13 under was enough to secure a three-shot victory over Ancer and his Torque GC teammate, Carlos Ortiz, who each shot a 71. This win marks Niemann’s second triumph in Australia, following his victory at the Australian Open in 2023, and his second early-season win in consecutive LIV Golf seasons. Last year, he won the first and third events and led the season-long points standings until finishing second to Legion XIII Captain Jon Rahm in the Individual Championship. Niemann is confident that his current form is even better than it was a year ago, and he believes he has more room to grow. "Days like today make me grow as a player," he said. "There is a lot I have to take from today and learn from it because today was a really good day. If I could have these Sundays more often, chasing leaders, it would be really good for my game."
The Fireballs Rise to the Top
Abraham Ancer, a former Australian Open champion himself, had a strong start to the final round with birdies on his first two holes, quickly taking the lead. However, the momentum shifted when Ancer found himself in the bunker at the par-3 14th hole and failed to get up-and-down, marking his first bogey of the day. In the meantime, Niemann, who was playing in the group ahead, posted his sixth birdie at the 15th hole, moving into a solo lead. Despite his setbacks, Ancer managed to remain composed, and his Fireballs GC team secured the team title by a commanding six strokes over Rahm’s Legion XIII. Torque GC finished third. Ancer reflected on his day with a mix of disappointment and optimism. "Obviously the last two holes were rough to finish with bogey-bogey, having a chance to win the tournament," he said. "It’s always tough, but I think it’s just fuel for the rest of the season. I feel like my game is trending in the right direction. I like where things are headed." Ancer will take this experience to the next tournament in Hong Kong, where he will defend his champion status.
Team Fireballs’ Consistent Excellence
The Fireballs GC team has a storied history at LIV Golf, having won their fifth tournament in club history. Notably, they have claimed victories on four different continents, solidifying their status as one of the most versatile and formidable teams in the league. Captain Sergio Garcia and David Puig each shot a 5-under 67, while Ancer and the team’s newest member, 22-year-old Luis Masaveu, each carded a 71. Despite the individual triumph of Niemann, Garcia was proud of his team’s performance. "Bittersweet with Abe, the way he played," Garcia said. "He was there the whole day, and it would have been nice to get the double. But super proud of the way they all fought." For Masaveu, the win and the ensuing champagne celebration were part of his initiation into the world of LIV Golf. "I asked what I needed to do because it was the first time," he said. "But I think I did it all right." Garcia couldn’t help but smile, adding, "Quick learner."
Torque GC’s Strong Showing
Torque GC, led by Niemann, had a solid final round, finishing third in the team competition. Niemann’s 65 tied for the lowest round of the day with Adrian Meronk, the winner of the previous event in Riyadh. Niemann’s iron play was particularly impressive, as he hit 16 of 18 greens in regulation. "The way I played today, I feel like it talks a lot on how I’ve been working, how I’ve been practicing," Niemann said. "Being able to see those little steps forward all the time, it’s always satisfying." His teammate, Carlos Ortiz, who shared the 36-hole lead with Ancer and Sam Horsfield, also contributed with a 71. However, the day belonged to Niemann, whose performance under pressure was nothing short of phenomenal. The team’s consistent performance throughout the season bodes well for their future in LIV Golf, and they are poised to be a strong contender in the upcoming events.
The New Scoring Format in Action
LIV Golf introduced a new scoring format in the season opener in Riyadh, where all four scores now count in every round of the team competition. This change was evident in the final round of LIV Golf Adelaide, where team results were determined by the combined efforts of all players. The Fireballs GC dominated with a total score of -21, thanks to strong performances from Garcia, Puig, Ancer, and Masaveu. Legion XIII, captained by Jon Rahm, finished second with a total of -15, while Torque GC, with Niemann’s exceptional 65, came in third at -13. The Crushers GC, led by Bryson DeChambeau, placed fourth with a total of -12. The HyFlyers GC, Four Aces GC, and Majesticks GC were tied for fifth with a score of -9. The consistent contributions from all team members under the new format highlight the depth and strength of each team, making the competition even more thrilling and unpredictable.
A Thrilling Sunday in Adelaide
The final round of LIV Golf Adelaide was a nail-biter, with Niemann’s steady and error-free play standing out. His approach to the game was methodical and focused, allowing him to make the necessary birdies when it mattered most. Ancer’s early lead and consistent performance until the 14th hole kept the tension high, but Niemann’s birdie on the 15th hole marked a turning point. The crowd in Adelaide was electric, cheering on the players and adding to the drama of the final holes. For Niemann, the experience of playing in such a high-pressure environment is invaluable. "There is a lot I have to take from today and learn from it because today was a really good day," he reiterated. The Fireballs GC’s team victory and the individual success of Niemann and Ancer are sure to set the tone for the upcoming tournaments, with players and teams eager to build on their performances.
Looking Ahead to Hong Kong
With the dust settling on the Adelaide podium, all eyes are now on the next LIV Golf event in Hong Kong. Ancer, the defending champion, will aim to reclaim his individual title and maintain his team’s dominance. Niemann, fresh off his win and in top form, will look to continue his stellar performance and further solidify his position as a leading player in the league. The new scoring format adds an extra layer of complexity and excitement to the team competition, ensuring that every player’s contribution is crucial. As the season progresses, the battle for individual and team supremacy will only intensify, making each tournament a must-watch event. Whether it’s the seasoned veterans like Sergio Garcia or the young stars like Luis Masaveu, the future of LIV Golf looks promising and full of fierce competition.
