Australian golfer Marc Leishman has dismissed assertions that players from the LIV Golf series are ill-prepared to win major championships. As he gears up for his first major appearance in nearly three years at the upcoming U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club, Leishman firmly rejected criticisms suggesting that LIV’s format hinders players’ competitiveness in majors.
Challenging the Narrative
Marc’s comments come in response to statements made by golf analyst Brandel Chamblee, who attributed the underperformance of LIV golfers Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau at the recent PGA Championship to the LIV Golf structure. Chamblee argued that LIV’s 54-hole, no-cut events lack the rigor necessary to prepare players for the demands of major tournaments.
Marc, however, disagrees. “I would disagree with that,” he stated. “We’re playing against great fields every single week on tough golf courses. Yes, it’s 54 holes, but it puts a bit of pressure on that first round to get off to … .” He emphasized that the LIV format, with its condensed nature and strong competition, sharpens players’ competitive edge and mental focus.
Return to Major Competition
Marc secured his spot in the U.S. Open after a grueling 38-hole qualifying day, including two playoff holes, at the Woodmont Country Club in Maryland. This marks his return to major championship golf for the first time since 2022. Leading up to the U.S. Open, he will participate in the LIV Golf Virginia event.
Reflecting on his current form, Leishman expressed confidence. “Definitely I feel like my game’s probably as good as it’s ever … ,” he said.
LIV Golfers in Major Championships
Leishman’s defense of LIV players is supported by the performances of several LIV golfers in recent majors. Bryson DeChambeau, for instance, is the defending U.S. Open champion and has consistently featured at the top of major leaderboards. Other LIV players like Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, Patrick Reed, and Phil Mickelson have also been serious contenders in golf’s four biggest annual events since joining the LIV tour.
What’s Next
As the U.S. Open approaches, Leishman is focused on delivering a strong performance. He acknowledges the unpredictable nature of golf, noting that success in majors often requires a combination of skill, timing, and a bit of luck. “Obviously golf’s a funny … remarked.
Leishman’s return to major competition not only marks a personal milestone but also serves as a statement against the skepticism surrounding LIV Golf. His performance at Oakmont will be closely watched as a measure of LIV players’ readiness for the sport’s most prestigious events.
