Emerging LIV Golf talent David Puig says he hopes he’s “on the right path” to one day matching the greatness of Spanish golfing legend Seve Ballesteros — and his latest achievement suggests he’s well on his way.
The 23-year-old (soon to turn 24) claimed the Joe Kirkwood Cup with a brilliant final-round 66 at Royal Queensland, finishing at 18-under to win the Australian PGA Championship by two shots over China’s Wenyi Ding.
It’s a milestone victory with a special piece of history behind it: Puig is now the first Spanish winner of the Australian PGA since Ballesteros in 1981. That year, a 24-year-old Seve stormed back from five shots down at Royal Melbourne to win by three, with future star Greg Norman a further stroke behind.
For Puig, the significance isn’t lost.
“It feels unbelievable, especially winning here in Australia,” he said after securing his third professional victory and his first since the Malaysian Open in February 2024.
“My name being with Seve’s name as the only two Spaniards that won this event makes it even more special.”
Puig has long admired Ballesteros — not just his brilliance, but his flair and passion.
“He’s such a big figure for Spanish golf… we try to be like him, play with that freedom, follow his short game, his attitude and behaviour and how much he cared. Hopefully, we’re on the right path.”
A Composed Finish Under Pressure
Entering Sunday in a three-way share of the lead at 13-under with Anthony Quayle and Ricardo Gouveia, Puig showed the composure of a seasoned champion.
“I was pretty nervous to be fair… but I kept my composure really well and that helped a lot.”
The win also came with a significant financial reward. While Ballesteros earned just $27,000 for his victory in 1981, Puig collected $403,750 — his first event with full-time DP World Tour status alongside his LIV contract.
Ding’s Rebound, Aussies in the Mix
China’s Wenyi Ding matched Puig’s 66 on Sunday, securing solo second and marking a strong turnaround after missing the cut in last year’s event.
“Right now I feel much better than before,” Ding said after his runner-up finish.
Marc Leishman led the Australian charge, firing a 68 to tie for third at 15-under alongside New Zealand’s Nick Voke.
Min Woo Lee finished at 14-under, joined by New Zealand’s Daniel Hillier, while Adam Scott posted a tidy 69 to end at 13-under.
Gouveia and Quayle, both part of the overnight leading trio, struggled on Sunday — Gouveia dropping to 12-under after a 72, and Quayle sliding to 11-under following a 73.
Last year’s winner, Elvis Smylie, rounded out his title defence with a Sunday 69 to finish nine-under.