Joaquín Niemann’s Victory in Singapore Sparks Debate Over His Ranking in Golf
Niemann’s Dominant Win Turns Heads
Joaquín Niemann’s commanding victory at the Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore has created a stir in the golf world. The Chilean golfer secured his second win of the season and fourth in the LIV Golf League by shooting a final-round 65, finishing five strokes ahead of the competition. His strong form has earned him widespread praise, with many considering him one of the top golfers in the game today.
Phil Mickelson Adds Fuel to the Fire
Following Niemann’s victory, his team, Torque GC, posted on social media, suggesting that Niemann should be considered among the top five golfers in the world. This statement caught the attention of Phil Mickelson, who took it a step further, claiming that Niemann should be ranked as the world’s number one golfer. Mickelson’s bold assertion immediately sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some supported his confidence in Niemann, while others dismissed the claim as exaggerated, especially given the absence of Niemann from the top ranks of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR).
Mickelson’s Comment Sparks Controversy
Many saw Mickelson’s statement as an indirect challenge to current world number one Scottie Scheffler, who has yet to secure a win in the 2025 season. Fans quickly took to social media to express their opinions, with some mocking Mickelson’s claim. One user bluntly responded, “You don’t even believe that, Phil,” while another dismissed the idea by saying, “Number one? Come on, Phil.”
Joaquín Niemann has got to be a top 5 player in the world right now.
Currently sits at the top of the leaderboard in Singapore for his 2 win of the season and 4th in @livgolf_league 🔥Vamos Joaco 🇨🇱
— Torque GC (@TorqueGC_) March 16, 2025
Critics also pointed out Niemann’s track record in Major tournaments, arguing that a true number one player should have a more consistent record in golf’s most prestigious events. Despite Niemann’s recent dominance in LIV Golf, his best Major finish remains a T16 at the Masters, and he has yet to crack the top 10 in any Major tournament.
The Ongoing Debate Over LIV Golf’s Standing
Mickelson’s comment has also reignited the ongoing debate between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. Some fans argue that LIV Golf’s competition level does not compare to the PGA Tour, making Niemann’s achievements less significant in the broader golfing landscape. One critic wrote, “#1 in LIV is like being the best college player because of the weak competition,” while another pointed out Niemann’s lack of high finishes in Majors, saying, “So the #1 player in golf doesn’t have a T10 in a Major?”
Niemann’s Drive for Success
Despite the criticism, Niemann remains focused on his goals. At 26 years old, he has already established himself as one of the top players in LIV Golf, with wins in both Singapore and Adelaide this season. He acknowledges that he still has much to accomplish, particularly when it comes to winning a Major. “I feel like I’m getting closer,” Niemann said. “There’s a lot I have to improve, and a lot I have, results-wise, to chase down. But it’s definitely my goal.”
What’s Next for Niemann?
As the debate continues, Niemann’s performance in upcoming tournaments will be closely watched. If he can carry his strong LIV Golf form into Major championships, he may start changing the minds of his critics. Until then, the discussion surrounding Mickelson’s statement and Niemann’s place in the golf hierarchy is sure to remain a hot topic among fans and analysts alike.