LIV Golf Adelaide 2026 Kicks Off with High Expectations and Championship Pride

The 2026 edition of LIV Golf Adelaide, the three-time defending winner of Golf Event of the Year honors, opened with a pre-tournament press conference featuring defending team champions Fireballs GC—captained by Sergio Garcia alongside David Puig, Luis Masaveu, and Josele Ballester. Garcia emphasized the event’s unique status on the LIV calendar, placing it among the team’s most coveted titles alongside events in Spain and the Team Championship. “If you can choose two that you really want to win, or maybe three… this one is a special one,” Garcia said. “I’m very proud to say that we already did that last year, so we’re excited to come here and defend our title.”

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For the all-Spanish Fireballs lineup, Adelaide represents more than a tournament—it’s a highlight driven by passionate crowds, electric atmosphere, and unmatched energy. Garcia noted that no other LIV event compares, crediting the Australian fans for their consistent enthusiasm and love of the game. “There’s nothing like it,” he said. “The response and the reaction from the Australian crowds… it’s been very special.” The team aims to protect and elevate the event’s legacy, especially as it transitions to new venues in the coming years, while celebrating the depth of talent on display.

Josele Ballester, making his LIV Golf Adelaide debut, expressed excitement about joining a squad with a proven record at the venue. “The Fireballs have done great here in the past, so cannot wait to hopefully keep up,” Ballester said. “I’m still looking for that first team victory with the boys, so hopefully this will be the perfect scenario.” Luis Masaveu, who competed last year, described the team dynamic as a “dream come true,” highlighting the mentorship from Garcia and inspiration from young teammates Puig and Ballester. “I’ve been watching Sergio since I was a kid… It’s been awesome being able to practice with them. We’re having a lot of fun.”

Ripper GC—captained by Cameron Smith with Marc Leishman, Lucas Herbert, and recent debut winner Elvis Smylie—shared similar anticipation for their home event. Smith called it the league’s biggest week, noting the unique fan experiences like Ripper Point and Ripper House on holes 13 and 14. “It feels like everyone wants to play well here,” Smith said. Leishman praised the impeccable course condition—“as good as I’ve probably ever seen it”—and Herbert welcomed the energy while enjoying a more familiar role after previous years. The team also highlighted their Little Rippers initiative with Golf Australia, emphasizing grassroots development and inspiring the next generation.

Talor Gooch, captain of Smash GC, reflected on Adelaide’s personal significance as the site of his first LIV victory. “This event will always hold a special place in my heart,” Gooch said. “It was my first win out here on LIV… For all of us players that have been here from the beginning, this is kind of the event that really kicked us off.” He acknowledged the bittersweet nature of this being the final year at the current venue, expressing hope for strong memories and praising the fans, tournament setup, and consistently pristine course conditions.

Across the board, players underscored Adelaide’s elevated status, driven by enthusiastic crowds, world-class competition, and a vibrant atmosphere unlike any other on the LIV schedule. Garcia pointed to the consistent high-level field and young talent as reasons for Australian fans to celebrate. The combination of proven champions, rising stars, and passionate support sets the stage for another memorable week as LIV Golf Adelaide aims to uphold its reputation as the league’s gold standard.

Quotes, data, and photos courtesy LIV Golf