Josele Ballester Wins First Professional Title at PIF Saudi International

News Summary

Josele Ballester clinched his first professional title at the PIF Saudi International, finishing with an impressive total score of 22 under par. His final round of 6-under 65 secured a three-shot victory over runner-up Caleb Surratt. The tournament marked the conclusion of the 2025 International Series, with Ballester’s win resulting in a $1 million prize and 324 ranking points. As the event attracted top players and showcased competitive golf, it sets a promising stage for Ballester’s future in the sport.

Josele Ballester Dazzles to Grab First Professional Title at PIF Saudi International

In an exhilarating showdown, Josele Ballester emerged victorious at the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, claiming his very first professional title. The young star showcased his skills with a remarkable final round of 6-under 65, finishing the tournament with a stunning total score of 22 under par, securing a three-shot lead over runner-up Caleb Surratt.

Final Round Drama

Ballester kicked off the final round trailing just one shot behind Surratt and Dean Burmester, who were both sitting at the top. However, it didn’t take long for Ballester to regain that lead, displaying confidence and grit that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Burmester ultimately placed third with a score of 17 under, while Richard Bland finished in fourth.

Crowded Leaderboard

The tournament featured a crowded leaderboard, with a notable seven-way tie for fifth place. In this group were familiar faces like Tyrrell Hatton, Anthony Kim, and Jason Kokrak, all of whom completed the tournament at 13 under. It was indeed a competitive final event that left fans eager for more.

Exciting Stakes and Rankings

The PIF Saudi International marked the final event of the 2025 International Series, and the stakes were high. Ballester’s victory not only secured him a hefty prize of $1 million but also awarded him 324 points towards the rankings, crucial for players striving for a spot on the LIV Golf roster for the upcoming 2026 season.

Meanwhile, Scott Vincent topped the International Series Rankings, earning a well-deserved spot on the LIV Golf roster for next year. Despite not qualifying for the final round, Yosuke Asaji from Japan secured second place in the rankings, ensuring he too will join LIV Golf next season, creating an exciting opportunity for these talented players.

A Rich History and Stunning Venue

The PIF Saudi International had its origins back in 2019 and has been co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour. Initially hosted at the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City, the event has now moved to the picturesque Riyadh Golf Club. Known as the “Pearl of the Desert,” this course, designed by Scottish architect Duncan Thomson, measures a challenging 7,411 yards.

Strong Attendance and Player Highlights

This year’s tournament attracted a strong turnout, featuring 43 LIV Golf players competing for top honors. With a total purse of $5 million, players were eager to earn a top-two finish, hoping to secure their futures on the prestigious LIV Golf roster for the upcoming season.

In noteworthy highlights, Anthony Kim made a comeback of sorts, achieving his first top-10 finish in over a decade, placing T5 in this exciting tournament.

A Bright Future Ahead

For Josele Ballester, this victory marks an incredible milestone in his budding career, occurring on just his tenth professional start. Having joined LIV Golf in June 2025, Ballester has already participated in six LIV Golf events this season. His remarkable performance at the PIF Saudi International illustrates not only his talent but also his potential as a rising star in the world of golf.

As the dust settles on this thrilling tournament, fans and players alike look forward to what the next season holds, with new stories about the competition and more unforgettable moments on the horizon.

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