The International Series Rankings leader John Catlin has taken ‘full advantage’ of the opportunity to play with LIV Golf’s Smash GC at Greenbrier on 16-18 August, contributing to Brook Koepka’s team title win.
The six-time Asian Tour winner stepped in for Graeme McDowell following on from some impressive displays on the Asian Tour, The International Series and LIV Golf events to compete on the LIV Golf League for the fifth time this season – four times in Crushers GC colours and once for Smash GC.
The in-form Sacramento native recorded back-to-back tournament wins at the International Series Macau presented by Wynn in March and the Saudi Open presented by PIF in April, and recently lost in a play-off to Ben Campbell of New Zealand at International Series Morocco before ace-ing the par-3 17th hole at LIV Golf UK by JCB in July.
Following his heroics at Greenbrier, Catlin said: “I'm just trying to go out there and play as well as I can. You never know what's going to happen in the future, but I would love to be out here. Any opportunity I get, I'm going to take full advantage of it, and I definitely feel more comfortable. Any chance I get, I'll be here.”
Smash GC beat Cam Smith’s Ripper GC by three shots and recorded a 53-under-par total, a new LIV Golf record – highlighting the importance of Catlin’s 66, 72 and 67 at The Old White in West Virginia, which included 11 birdies throughout the three rounds.
Brooks Koepka won the individual title after beating Legion XIII’s Captain John Rahm on the first playoff hole – securing his fifth title on the LIV Golf League and second of the year.
The 33-year-old was delighted that Koepka entrusted him to deliver on the big stage, and even more so that he duly delivered when it counted. He said: “It was huge (knowing his score contributed to the win). Thanks to Brooks for giving me the opportunity to play. I was just happy I could help out, and us being up there was truly special.”
International Series England champion Peter Uihlein secured a top 20 finish on a 10-under-par total alongside four other players including Japan’s Jinichiro Kozuma who advanced out of playoff at the LIV Golf Promotions event to earn a spot in the 2024 LIV Golf League.
England’s Richard Bland showcased his strong form once again with a T4 finish, adding to an impressive year in which he has secured two senior major titles.
