AUGUSTA, Ga. — The final round of LIV Golf at Doral drew attention as it featured several past Masters champions. Among them were Phil Mickelson, a three-time winner, who at 54 years old was vying for his first LIV title. Jon Rahm, the reigning Masters champion, was also in the mix, along with Sergio Garcia, Patrick Reed, and Charl Schwartzel, all of whom have previously donned the green jacket.
As the LIV Golf event wrapped up, it seemed like a perfect lead-in to Masters week. However, the excitement of having notable champions on the leaderboard did not translate into a victory for one of them. Instead, Aussie Marc Leishman took home the win, leaving LIV Golf with a need for more visibility in the competitive golf landscape.
Despite the presence of big names, LIV Golf’s television ratings have been struggling, often falling below even reruns of classic shows. This has raised concerns about the tour’s visibility and appeal. The hope is that if one of the LIV players performs well at the Masters, it could enhance the tour’s reputation, which has faced criticism for its shorter fields and format compared to the PGA Tour.
LIV players have shown they can compete at the highest level in major tournaments. Last year, Bryson DeChambeau and Cam Smith finished tied for sixth at the Masters, while other LIV players also placed well. As they prepare for this year’s Masters, there is a sense that their success could help boost the tour’s credibility.
Rahm, eager to reclaim his title, expressed his desire to perform better after a disappointing major season in 2024. He acknowledged the pressure but feels ready to tackle it. Mickelson, aiming for his fourth green jacket, also remains focused on his game.
DeChambeau, reflecting on last year’s performance, noted the lessons learned about the Augusta course and the importance of patience. He hopes to carry that knowledge into this year’s competition.
As the Masters unfolds, all eyes will be on the LIV players. A strong performance could be just what they need to elevate their standing in the world of golf.