Watch the highlights from the Riyadh Golf Club as Si Woo Kim secures his first top-10 finish in 14 years, ending his comeback after 12 years away due to injuries and personal struggles. Carlos Ortiz Ballester clinches his first professional victory on the LIV Golf Tour, defeating Caleb Surratt and Dean Burmester.
In this video, we break down the final round action, key performances, and standout moments from the Asian Tour’s International Series event. Ballester, the 2024 US Amateur champion, turned pro in June and made an impressive start on LIV Golf.
Kim, a three-time PGA Tour winner and former Ryder Cup player, finished at 14-under par in a tie for fifth after a one-under 70, just eight shots off the winner. Learn about his emotional journey back to golf.
Also covered: Scott Vincent and Yosuke Asaji earning LIV Golf spots for next season based on the final standings.
Don’t miss our analysis of the tournament, player quotes, and what this means for the future of LIV Golf and professional golf.
Kim’s resurgence, a top 10 finish and a maiden pro title. In a remarkable comeback, Kim, a three-time PGA Tour winner, secured his first top 10 finish in 14 years at the Riad Golf Club on Saturday. His 14 underpar performance in a six-way tie for fifth place marked a significant milestone in his career. The 40-year-old who had been away from the sport for 12 years due to injuries, addiction, and mental health struggles, is now experiencing a resurgence. This top 10 finish is his best result since his return to the game in 2024. Despite starting the final round four shots behind the leaders, Kim’s determination paid off. He finished just eight strokes behind the winner, Ballister, who shot a one under 70. It’s frustrating not to have scored better, Kim admitted. I had numerous opportunities on the first 11 holes, but missed out on making enough putts. I’ll feel better about it once I’m on the flight home. The story of Ballister, a 22-year-old prodigy, is equally inspiring. He won the 2024 US Amateur Championship and turned professional in June, choosing the Saudi backed LIIV Tour over the PGA Tours Corn Ferry Tour. Ballister’s talent was evident as he started the day one shot behind the leaders Caleb Serat and Dean Burmeister but finished with a six under 65 claiming the title by a three-stroke margin. Sirat and Burmeister finished second and third respectively with Sirat at 19 under and Burmeister two shots behind. Ballister’s journey reflects a challenging yet rewarding path. It’s been a learning curve. He shared, “When I joined LIIV, I wasn’t playing well, but I had to improve. It’s been incredible to witness my rapid progress and see that I can compete at the highest level.” The tournament, part of the Asian Tours Elevated International Series, concluded with Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent topping the final standings, securing his spot in LIIV golf for the next season. Japan’s Yoske Asagi also earned a LIIV place by finishing second in the standings. This tournament showcased the power of perseverance and the potential for remarkable comebacks in the world of golf.
