Josele Ballester made a significant impression on the global golf scene by winning the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank in only his 10th professional start. He finished with a strong final round of six-under-par 65 at Riyadh Golf Club, securing victory by three shots over Caleb Surratt from the United States. South African Dean Burmester took third place, and England’s Richard Bland finished fourth, while American Anthony Kim had his best result since returning to golf after 12 years, tying for fifth.
This tournament marked the end of the season for The International Series, with Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent winning the overall International Series Rankings, earning a return to the LIV Golf League. Ballester started the final day one shot behind leaders Surratt and Burmester but quickly moved ahead with three consecutive birdies and no dropped shots. He maintained his lead with additional birdies, comfortably cruising to victory in only his second Asian Tour event.
Ballester, a 22-year-old who won the US Amateur the previous year and joined Sergio Garcia’s Fireballs GC team mid-season, expressed his joy and determination after the win. Surratt, who had been runner-up at this event previously, started poorly but recovered with birdies, ultimately falling short again. The event demonstrated Ballester’s rapid improvement and ability to compete against top players early in his career.
Other notable performers included Miguel Tabuena from the Philippines, who narrowly missed overtaking Japan’s Yosuke Asaji for a spot in the LIV Golf League, and Vincent, who despite a tough final round, secured his top ranking in the International Series. The Asian Tour will continue with a tournament in India at the end of November, further integrating with the Indian Golf Premier League.
Overall, Ballester’s victory at Riyadh highlighted his rising talent and added a prestigious achievement early in his professional journey. The tournament was competitive and showcased emerging talents alongside established players on the international golf stage.