Josele Ballester: A Rising Star with a Mindset for Success

We at CGN got on the conference call with Josele Ballester, and it was clear from the start—this guy isn’t just playing golf, he’s living it. The Arizona State senior carries himself with a mix of humility and confidence, balancing respect for the game with a willingness to take risks. Whether it’s preparing for The Masters or looking back on his journey from Spain to college golf, his approach is simple: stay in the moment and trust the process.

"It’s Just Another Tournament"—Keeping a Steady Mindset

We asked how he prepares for big tournaments, and his answer was refreshingly grounded. Josele isn’t the type to overhype an event—whether it’s The Masters or a mid-season collegiate tournament, his focus remains the same.

“It’s just another golf tournament,” he told us. “I just want to go in, do the work, and execute the way I know I can.”

It’s a mindset that separates good players from great ones—the ability to stay level-headed no matter the stakes. Of course, The Masters isn’t just another tournament, but you wouldn’t know it by talking to him.

A Family Decision: From Tennis to Golf

Josele’s path to golf wasn’t exactly preordained. He never liked swimming (which, honestly, who does?), and field hockey was the big sport where he grew up. Tennis was on the table for a while, but ultimately, it was his parents who nudged him toward golf.

“They thought it was a better choice for me,” he said, and clearly, they were onto something.

Connections on Tour: Learning from the Best

The inevitable question was asked if has  he had a chance to connect with many big names on Tour.

Josele admitted he hasn’t built a ton of relationships with tour pros yet, but there are a couple of guys he’s learned from—Jon Rahm and Sergio García. Not a bad duo to take advice from.

“I’ve learned the most from them,” he said, emphasizing how much their experience has helped shape his approach to the game.

Advice from His Coach: Prepare, But Enjoy It

When we asked about his coach’s advice heading into big tournaments, the message was simple: prepare as best as possible, but don’t forget to enjoy it.

“I want to go there, have fun, and grow as a player,” he said.

This balance between hard work and enjoyment is a big part of why Josele has continued to develop at Arizona State, both as a golfer and a person.

The ASU Experience: A Golf Education Beyond the Course

Arizona State has given him more than just a solid golf game—it’s given him lifelong connections and a chance to grow.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” he told us. “I’ve built great relationships with other golfers, students, and learned a lot—not just about golf, but about life.”

At this point, it’s clear: Josele isn’t just here to play golf—he’s here to evolve.

Augusta Awaits: Embracing the Challenge

Speaking of evolution, we had to ask about his experience playing Augusta National and how he’s preparing for The Masters.

“It’s a special place,” he said. “But I’m not afraid to take risks. The biggest thing for me is having the right mindset.”

That mindset? Take everything in stride, play aggressively when necessary, and trust the preparation.

From the European Amateur to The Open Championship

Winning the 2023 European Amateur Championship secured Josele a spot in The Open Championship, a moment that taught him a lot about competing on golf’s biggest stage.

We asked what that experience did for his confidence.

“I remember how nervous I was at that moment,” he admitted. “Same with the Phoenix Open. But overcoming those nerves is part of growing as a player.”

With The Masters on the horizon, he’s eager to see how he’ll feel that Thursday at Augusta, knowing that these experiences have prepared him for what’s next.

Accepting the Masters' Invitation: A Decision That Meant Something

Josele spoke about receiving his invitation to The Masters, something every golfer dreams of. It’s not just an invite—it’s an acknowledgment that you belong among the best.

“It’s a different event,” he said. “You really notice how special it is. It wasn’t something I had to think about for long.”

At the end of the day, he knows what this means.

A Successful Masters? Living in the Moment

Before we wrapped up, he was asked what success at The Masters would mean for him.

“Finishing as high as I can would be great, but that’s not always the goal,” he said.

For Josele, success is about staying in the present, making the most of the opportunity, and soaking it all in.

“If I can do that, it’ll be a great week.”

And honestly, with his mindset and talent, it feels like this is just the beginning.

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