LIV Golf Open Zone Predictions: Josele Ballester

As the wait begins for LIV Golf 2026, we take a look back to 2025 and ahead to next season by putting into focus the 24 golfers who escaped relegation but sit in the Open Zone. And then predict whether their current team will offer a contract or if another option is more likely for 2026.

In LIV Golf, the Open Zone is the section of the season-long individual standings for players ranked 25th through 48th. Players in this zone can remain in the league for the following season, but their current team is not obligated to offer them a new contract if their existing deal has expired. This means players in the Open Zone risk becoming free agents and can be signed by other teams or potentially lose their spot in the league if they are not re-signed.

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Baby Bull Bursts On The Scene

After an incredibly successful amateur career, which included Spanish, European, and US Amateur Championships, Ballester finished 3rd at PGA Tour University, earning his Korn Ferry Tour status. He declined and the rest is LIV Golf League History

Stumbled Early, Sprinted After That

Josele carded a T50 and a 48th-place finish in his first two LIV events, but then went on a run. In Andalucia, the Spaniard collected his first league points, then added a T7 in the UK event, before nearly winning LIV Chicago! His arrival in the pro game was undeniable in 2025.

Competing in less than half of the individual events, Ballester still claimed 35th overall in the season-long standings. He did not qualify for any league statistical categories, but his length off the tee proved viral!

A Fixture For Decades To Come

It's hard not to hype "El Torito" (as coined by Matt Vincenzi). His elite amateur career, combined with his Spanish confidence, is a SCARY combination. When, not if, is the question when it comes to Josele's first LIV Golf victory. Sergio nailed this one. Now, sit back and enjoy the ride.

Quotes, data, and photos courtesy of LIV Golf Media