David Puig’s defeat in Macau has turned out to be deeply disheartening for the LIV golfer. Why? Well, as per the reports, he is ought to face a significant setback in his Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Following his victory at the Malaysian Open, Puig was on the verge of a considerable surge in his Official World Golf Ranking and he did achieve so.
While Puig’s OWGR reached a career-best of 132nd, his runner-up position in the International Series Macau loss will elevate him to 105th in the world rankings. Nevertheless, despite winning the runner-up prize of $220,000, Puig remains unsatisfied. Why? Because he did not get in the top 100 as he had desired before the event.
“Here I am trying to hopefully win or maybe finish second this week and see if I can break that top 100 and get into the PGA. That’s the main goal for this week,” said Puig. Achieving a ranking below 100 would have greatly improved his opportunities for majors throughout the year, especially the PGA Championship that he is eyeing presently.
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.@JohnCatlin59 wins in Macau after a playoff with @PuigCorrius and he should jump somewhere close to #230 in #OWGR.
David Puig who came close to shooting a 59 of his own today (60), is climbing provisionally to #105, reaching now #OlympicGolf and #PGAChampionship territory! https://t.co/MJLSAWROqH
— Nosferatu (@VC606) March 17, 2024
Throughout the tournament in Macau, Puig adhered to his usual approach to the international series. Puig, paired with the South African pro, Jbe Kruger, seized the halfway lead following the conclusion of the second round. After big drives and seven birdies, including on No. 17 and 18, it was a “good day” for the Spanish pro. However, the Spanish pro’s fortunes took a dramatic turn soon after; he faced a devastating loss to the American pro, John Catlin.
The final round was very close and certainly intriguing to watch. In the third round, Catlin shot six birdies and four bogeys. However, things took a turn in the final round even after hitting an eagle on the par-5 13th, 9 birdies, and 1 bogey. Puig still lost in the playoffs!
Read More: Unveling Anthony Kim’s Major Aim Behind the Breaking 12-Year Hiatus
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The Asian tournaments hold significant importance, particularly for LIV golfers, because LIV Golf events do not fit the OWGR criteria and the golfers aren’t awarded any OWGR points. With the struggle, what do you think is next for the 22-year-old star?
What’s next for Puig following this defeat?
Puig’s journey extends beyond just world rankings, as this Spanish pro has already earned a spot in the Open Championship after achieving a victory in the IRS Prima Malaysian Open. Nevertheless, Puig is also aiming for the PGA Championship, in addition to setting his sights on the upcoming Olympic Games scheduled for this summer.
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Even though there is no confirmation of this pro getting an invitation to the upcoming Masters in April, his setback doesn’t hinder Puig’s determination to move forward. Will this defeat bring any changes to his professional life? Only time will tell.
Read More: Who Is David Puig? All You Need to Know About the Young LIV Golf Pro