In a significant move within the professional golf landscape, 21-year-old Spanish golfer Josele Ballester has signed a multi-year contract with LIV Golf’s Fireballs GC, captained by fellow Spaniard Sergio Garcia. This transition marks Ballester’s shift from a distinguished amateur career to the professional arena.
Ballester, hailing from Castellón de la Plana, Spain, boasts an impressive amateur record, including victories at the 2020 Spanish Amateur, 2023 European Amateur, and the 2024 U.S. Amateur. His triumph at the U.S. Amateur made him the first Spaniard to win the prestigious title. Before turning professional, he was ranked No. 6 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking.
The young golfer’s connection to Sergio Garcia is deeply rooted; both are from the same Spanish province, and Ballester has been coached by Garcia’s father, Victor, throughout his development. Garcia expressed enthusiasm about the addition, stating, “We are very excited about Josele joining the team. Personally, I have known him since he could pick up a golf club, and he has worked with my father as his coach throughout his golf career.”
Ballester’s decision to join LIV Golf comes after declining a spot on the Korn Ferry Tour, a traditional pathway to the PGA Tour. Instead, he opted for the opportunities presented by LIV Golf, including a guaranteed schedule and the chance to play alongside established professionals.
With his debut set for the upcoming LIV Golf event in Virginia, Ballester replaces Luis Masaveu in the Fireballs lineup. Masaveu, who had a half-season contract, will remain with the team as a reserve player.
Ballester expressed gratitude for the support he’s received, stating, “I want to thank my family, coaches, friends, and Arizona State University for supporting me and believing in me to make it to this step of my career. I am very excited about the opportunity to join Fireballs GC and continue to learn from Sergio and other greats.”
As Ballester embarks on this new chapter, his integration into LIV Golf’s Fireballs GC signifies not only a personal milestone but also highlights the ongoing shifts within professional golf’s competitive landscape.