U.S. Amateur Champion Josele Ballester Signs with LIV Golf
Reigning U.S. Amateur champion Josele Ballester has signed with LIV Golf, joining Fireballs GC led by Sergio Garcia. The 20-year-old Spaniard becomes the first defending U.S. Amateur winner to sign with the league, continuing LIV’s push to attract top global talent.
A standout at Arizona State, Ballester built one of the most impressive amateur résumés in recent years. He won the 2024 U.S. Amateur at Cherry Hills, finished T3 at the European Amateur, and was a key contributor for Spain at both the Eisenhower Trophy and the Arnold Palmer Cup. He also qualified for the 2024 U.S. Open, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level.
Ballester will make his professional debut this week in Houston alongside Fireballs GC teammates Sergio Garcia, Abraham Ancer, and Eugenio Chacarra — a fellow ASU alum.
His signing marks a significant milestone in the evolution of pro golf pathways, with Ballester opting for a guaranteed start and international platform over the traditional PGA Tour route.
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