Joaquin Niemann Wins PIF Saudi International Playoff in Riyadh

Riyadh Thrills as Joaquin Niemann Clinches Stunning Playoff Victory

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The buzz around the Riyadh Golf Club hit its peak over the weekend as Captain Joaquin Niemann led his team, Torque GC, to glory by snatching up the top spot in the thrilling US$5 million PIF Saudi International. In a nail-biting playoff showdown, he bested Ripper GC’s captain Cameron Smith and fellow competitor Caleb Surratt of Legion XIII, claiming the prestigious title.

A Playoff for the Ages

The playoff itself came down to the wire, with Niemann delivering a jaw-dropping performance on the second playoff hole. After executing an exquisite lob shot that left him just 12 inches from the hole, Niemann sank an impressive birdie. Meanwhile, both Smith and Surratt struggled to nail their birdie attempts, leaving Niemann to hoist the trophy triumphantly. “It was a good day. Caleb and I played great,” he reflected. “Just never thought we were going to be in a playoff with Cam Smith; he really surprised us!”

From Underdog to Top of the Rankings

With this victory, worth a staggering US$1 million, Niemann doesn’t just take home the shiny trophy; he also crowns himself the king of The International Series rankings. After a season filled with ups and downs, Niemann’s triumph at the Saudi International caps off a year he won’t forget. “I’m really excited for what’s coming next season on LIV and hopefully get into a few majors,” he beamed.

The playoff excitement unfolded after all three golfers found themselves tied at 21 under par. Interestingly, Niemann had led the day starting with a one-shot advantage, firing a solid 4-under 67. Surratt turned heads with a blistering 5-under 66, while Smith shocked everyone by surging with a remarkable 9-under 62 when it looked like he was out of the running. Talk about coming in hot!

Thrills, Spills, and Unforeseen Fates

Niemann initially seemed determined to clinch the title early, setting a swift pace by pocketing birdies on the first three holes. However, he hit a speed bump with a bogey on No. 14 and found himself in tricky territory on the 18th hole. After a worrisome tee shot that got him into a bit of trouble with the foliage, he recovered just in time, only to miss a crucial 5-footer for the win. Surratt faced a heartbreaking bogey after misjudging his tee shot that ended up in the water, while Smith managed a birdie to fuel the playoff drama.

“It’s a really good way to wrap up the season,” Niemann said, still buzzing from his experience. “At the end of the day, golf can be unpredictable.”

Close Calls and Bitter Disappointments

For 20-year-old Caleb Surratt, it was a tough pill to swallow as he aimed for his first professional win but ultimately faced yet another close call in his career. Reflecting on his performance, Surratt stated, “Yeah, it’s a tough pill to swallow. I thought I gave it my all this week.” After impressive finishes in previous International Series events, Surratt seemed on the brink of a breakthrough but fell just short.

Meanwhile, Ben Campbell closed with an impressive 64 but narrowly missed out on the playoff. His performance not only cost him a shot at the trophy but also a coveted place in next year’s LIV Golf League – a situation that leaves many fans on the edge of their seats for what the future holds. Completing the leaderboard, Tyrrell Hatton from Legion XIII claimed fifth with a solid 4-under 67, further building on the season’s excitement.

A Truly Memorable Finish

Sitting back and reflecting on the day, Smith shared, “It’s a weird game sometimes… I really didn’t think I’d get this far, but golf keeps you guessing!” As the dust settles on this exhilarating season, all eyes now turn toward next year’s challenges. Will Niemann defend his title successfully, or will new talents rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – golf in Riyadh has never been more thrilling!