John Catlin, a three-time DP World Tour winner, is eyeing up a full-time switch to LIV Golf following his stint as a reserve with Bryson DeChambeau.
After stepping in for the injured Charles Howell III at both LIV Nashville and LIV Houston in June, where he notably tied for seventh at the latter, Catlin has made quite the impression. He’s currently back on the Asian Tour, competing in the International Series event in Morocco this week.
The top player of the Order of Merit in the series by the end of 2024 will earn a place on the LIV roster for 2025, a path previously taken by ex-US Amateur champ Andy Ogletree last season.
Now second in the standings, just behind LIV golfer Carlos Ortiz, Catlin is keen to emulate Ogletree after getting a taste of the rebel circuit. While in Morocco, Catlin remarked: “[The international Series] is definitely priority one for me now.”
He further commented: “Having experienced the LIV Golf events, they are really cool. We are very well looked after and playing that calibre of field for that kind of money is something we all want. That is priority one and I am looking for what will unfold over the next eight events.”
Catlin’s brief appearances on the Saudi-backed setup have already earned him praise from one of the league’s biggest stars, DeChambeau. He applauded his fellow American’s efforts when he filled in for his Crushers team twice last month.
As the final round in Nashville loomed, Catlin was in second place, trailing three shots behind the eventual winner, Tyrrell Hatton.
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Despite not making a significant impact in the final round, US Open champion DeChambeau was thoroughly impressed. “He’s a fantastic golfer,” DeChambeau said last month.
“I grew up playing some golf with him in northern California, and we had some early career battles, even in junior golf.”
“He’s a stellar player. He’s shot in the 50s and won a few times this year now. It just fit our team really well, and I’m praying for Charles that he’s going to be healthy and get back here pretty soon. He’s struggling with some stuff, but I have faith that he’ll be back at our next event.”
“You know what, I couldn’t be more proud of John and the way he’s performing for our team.”
Catlin continued his excellent form in Morocco on Thursday, establishing himself as the early leader with a remarkable seven-under-par 66, which included five birdies and an eagle.
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