LIV Golf’s Latest Signing Says Masters Champ Talked Him Out of PGA Tour originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Sometimes life throws you a PGA Tour card, and you just walk away from it. Josele Ballester, one of golf’s brightest young talents, did exactly that. And who convinced him to take a detour? None other than his mentor and 2017 Masters champion, Sergio Garcia.
Ballester, fresh off a standout college career at Arizona State, had a clear path. He ranked third in the PGA Tour University rankings. That spot earned him full Korn Ferry Tour status. But instead of chasing the traditional dream, he joined Garcia’s Fireballs team on LIV Golf.
Speaking ahead of LIV Golf Andalucia this week, Ballester explained his decision. “Sergio has been more than a friend growing up. He’s been almost like a mentor,” Ballester told reporters. “I know I’m in the right place with the right people.”
Their bond runs deep. Garcia’s father, Victor, has coached Ballester since he was 14. That connection led to rounds with Sergio whenever he was home in Spain. Now, Ballester gets to learn from him on golf’s most controversial stage.
Garcia, who’s still one of LIV Golf’s biggest names, believes Ballester made the right call. “At least here, you’re getting round after round. You can find your rhythm,” Garcia said. “On other tours, if you don’t start well, you miss cuts. That snowballs mentally.”
Ballester’s start hasn’t been spectacular. He finished 50th in Virginia and 48th in Texas. But the young Spaniard feels comfortable. He feels supported. That’s all part of the plan.
He’ll tee it up in front of home fans this Friday, alongside Garcia and the Fireballs squad. No cuts. No grind to make a weekend. Just golf, reps, and a shot to build something different.
Sometimes, the road less traveled really is less stressful.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
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