Australian LIV Golf sensation Marc Leishman has responded to allegations that the format of the breakaway tour leaves its players ill-prepared for major championships.
During the final round of last month’s PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, both Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau found themselves in strong positions before experiencing a downhill slide in the closing stages.
Prominent former player and current commentator Brandel Chamblee claimed that “LIV’s format and lack of competition” contributed to their late collapse.
On Thursday, Leishman dismissed these assertions, asserting that the more relaxed structure of LIV events “actually helps players to prepare effectively for the majors”.
“We compete against exceptional fields every week, on demanding golf courses,” Leishman told Australian media, including Wide World of Sports.
Marc Leishman successfully qualified for the US Open. Getty
“It’s true that we play 54 holes, but that creates a bit of urgency in the opening round to get off to a strong start since (LIV events) are a bit like a sprint.
“We’re also enjoying a lot of golf outside of tournaments, which enhances our experience. When you’re enjoying the game and it doesn’t feel so much like a grind, it often leads to improved performance.”
Leishman’s approach seems effective as he recently secured his place in next weekend’s US Open after navigating a tough 36-hole open qualifying event at Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, Maryland.
Dubbed the ‘Longest Day in Golf’, Leishman secured one of the four available spots, succeeding in a tense three-for-two playoff.
This will mark his first major appearance since 2022, where he will join fellow Australians Cameron Smith, Jason Day, Min Woo Lee, Adam Scott, and Cameron Davis in the competition.
Leishman noted that his preparation for the qualifying event would have been compromised if he had been on the PGA Tour.
“I wouldn’t have had the opportunity – I would have been busy gearing up for other events,” he remarked.
“I’ve got a tournament this week (LIV Virginia) – while it’s not a US Open course, it features extremely quick, hilly greens. I believe it will provide excellent preparation for Oakmont next week.”
“I’m content with the current schedule and how it allows for leading into majors. I would strongly disagree with Brandel Chamblee’s comments.”
Leishman’s T3 finish at last December’s Australian Open had already secured him entry into the British Open, slated for next month at Royal Portrush.
Fellow Australians Lucas Herbert and Karl Vilips also participated in the Woodmont qualifier but were unsuccessful in securing a spot after the first round.
Notable players who participated in the final qualifying but missed out include PGA Tour fan favourite Max Homa, 2014 US Open runner-up Rickie Fowler, and two-time major champion Zach Johnson.
The US Open kicks off next Thursday night (AEST).
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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