Marc Leishman achieved a long-awaited breakthrough with a double triumph at Trump National Doral’s infamously challenging Blue Monster course. In Miami, Leishman clinched his first individual LIV Golf title and helped propel his team, Ripper GC, to their first team victory under punishing conditions.
Leishman’s bogey-free 68 on a day of high winds and fast greens was a masterclass in patience and precision. His steady play was enough to edge Charl Schwartzel by a single shot, with a total score that became the week’s gold standard amid a field of faltering favorites.
The Bleak Conditions at Doral
With gusty winds and unyielding greens, no team finished under par. Ripper GC’s +4 team total was still enough to outpace:
- Crushers GC at +12
- 4Aces GC at +17
Assisting Leishman’s cause were teammates:
- Cameron Smith with a 70
- Matt Jones with a 71
- Lucas Herbert with a 74
A Pivotal Final Hole
On the scarifying 18th hole, Leishman’s tee shot found the trees. Forced to punch out, he left himself with a nerve-wracking 13-foot putt for par and nailed it. Moments later, Sergio Garcia’s approach splashed into the water, ensuring Leishman’s victory.
“That last putt, that’s one I’ll remember,” said the Australian.
Standout Performances
Charl Schwartzel nearly stole the show with four consecutive birdies and a tournament-low 66. Meanwhile, Sergio Garcia surged into the top three but came undone on the final hole.
Other notable highlights:
- Phil Mickelson flashed brilliance before a cruel shot off the pin cost him, he still finished solo sixth.
- Jon Rahm extended his top-10 streak to 17 despite a quadruple-bogey on 17. His Legion XIII team placed fourth.
Looking Ahead
Twelve LIV Golf players, including top contenders like Garcia, Schwartzel, and DeChambeau, now head to The Masters. Whether Leishman’s momentum carries into Augusta remains to be seen, but for now, his first win in four years stands tall among the season’s most resilient performances.
For the full article, visit the LIV Golf website.
