The Asian Tour is set to ignite with fierce competition at its second International Series event of the season in Macau. With a hefty $2 million prize money on offer and three openings at The Open Championship hanging in the balance, the sport’s elite players from the LIV Golf League are gearing up for a thrilling duel on the classic par-70 layout of Macau Golf and Country Club.
Returning champion John Catlin is poised to defend his title after a resounding playoff win last year that turbocharged his season. However, with numerous LIV stars fresh from tournaments in Hong Kong and Singapore, the stage is set for intense competition and potential surprise victories. The ultimate question remains—who will rise to the occasion and clutch the champion’s trophy, along with the $360,000 reward?
Let’s delve into the top five contenders to keep an eye on in the International Series Macau, sponsored by Wynn.
David Puig, a rising star in LIV Golf, is inching his way to the top. Last year, the Fireballs GC player came agonizingly close to victory in Macau, only to lose in a playoff to Catlin. However, his recent performances suggest this might be his year to turn things around. With consistent top finishes, including a 4th place in both LIV Golf Adelaide and LIV Golf Singapore, and a T3 finish in Houston, Puig is demonstrating he’s a force to be reckoned with. His last significant triumph was in February 2024 at the IRS Prima Malaysian Open. This could be his moment to convert near-misses into a title.
John Catlin, the reigning champion of the International Series Macau, is no stranger to making history on this course. Last year, he scorched the course with a record-setting 59, the first sub-60 round in Asian Tour history. Despite a few close losses, Catlin has been a consistent contender, having secured back-to-back Asian Tour titles. If course familiarity truly plays a part, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him rewrite history by defending his title.
Abraham Ancer is another player on an impressive streak. After securing his first LIV Golf win in Hong Kong in 2024, Ancer has been a formidable competitor. His recent top finishes in Singapore and Adelaide, coupled with his past face-off with Rory McIlroy at the Wells Fargo Championship, make him a strong contender for the Macau title.
Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, has had a rollercoaster journey but remains a formidable threat. His recent win at the Link Hong Kong Open, where he shot an astonishing 11-under-par 59 in the third round, shows he has what it takes to control a tournament. Despite a string of middling finishes lately, Reed has a knack for delivering when least expected, like his hole-in-one at LIV Golf Adelaide’s ‘Watering Hole.’ Macau could be his chance to reassert his dominance.
Finally, Sergio García is a player on a hot streak. Fresh off his LIV Golf Hong Kong win in March 2025 with a score of -18, García is proving that experience can trump youth. His consistent performances and leadership as the captain of Fireballs GC make him a favourite for the Macau title.
The International Series Macau promises to be a thrilling event. Who do you think will emerge victorious? Share your predictions in the comments!
