Joaquin Niemann’s triumph at the LIV Mayakoba tournament highlights frustrations with the Official World Golf Ranking system.
Michael Kim and Joaquin Niemann (Image via SFGATE and Sports Illustrated)
A PGA Tour player found amusement in Niemann’s grievances with the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) system. Niemann emerged as the winner of the LIV Golf event in Mexico on Sunday but did not receive any world ranking points.
The Chilean defeated his opponent in a thrilling four-hole playoff to claim the individual LIV Mayakoba title. He earned a substantial $4 million prize. However, the victory did not come with OWGR points due to LIV’s ongoing battle for recognition in the world rankings. This clearly frustrated Niemann, whose ranking has dropped since joining the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour in 2022.
In a post-win interview, he expressed his hope that the impressive victory would catch the attention of those in charge of major tournaments and potentially secure him a spot. Niemann’s ranking has plummeted since joining LIV Golf, which hampers his chances of participating in majors. Currently, he is only eligible for one major in 2024.
When Niemann emphasized his desire to “get in” and play more majors this season, Kim simply responded with “Lol” on social media. The Tour professional found humor in his LIV counterpart’s complaints about his ranking.
Lol
Joaquin Niemann emerged as the victor after an epic four-hole playoff against Sergio Garcia at LIV’s Mayakoba event. Niemann delivered a stunning 59 on Friday, one of golf’s most remarkable rounds. However, a controversial two-stroke penalty imposed on Saturday cost him his substantial lead.
Heading into the final round on Sunday, Niemann and Garcia battled for the lead throughout the day. They finished regulation tied at 12-under par, leading to a sudden death playoff. In near darkness on the fourth playoff hole, Garcia birdied the challenging par-4 18th hole. But Niemann responded with a clutch birdie putt of his own to secure the thrilling victory and the $4 million top prize.
“I want to win Majors, but I gotta get in first!” 🤣 @joaconiemann reacts to his incredible putt in the DARK to win on the 4th playoff hole in Mayakoba 👏 #LIVGolf @TorqueGC_
“Freaking awesome,” an exhilarated Niemann exclaimed to the world after his tremendous triumph. “I aspire to win majors, but I must first qualify!” Despite the dramatic playoff win in front of everyone, Niemann was clearly bothered by the absence of world ranking points. This continues to hinder his participation in majors, prolonging and prompting his grievances.
Michael Kim found the situation ironically humorous. His “Lol” tweet mocked the ranking issues that Niemann and other LIV golfers now face. This highlights the main problem with OWGR. The battle for OWGR points will continue, but for now, Niemann’s victory did not contribute to his progress towards his major championship goals.
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