In a thrilling and intense finale to the 2024 LIV Golf season, Ripper GC emerged as the champions of the $50 million Team Championship held at Maridoe Golf Club in Dallas, Texas. The Australian team, consisting of Cam Smith, Matt Jones, Lucas Herbert, and Marc Leishman, put up a stellar performance on the final day, securing a cumulative score of 277 and claiming the prestigious title along with a $14 million winner’s cheque. With two team wins at home and strong finishes in various tournaments throughout the season, Ripper GC proved their mettle as they outpaced their competitors to clinch the championship.
The road to victory was not an easy one for Ripper GC, who entered the championship as the third seed. After a nail-biting semi-final match against Fireballs GC, they advanced to the final day with a shot at the LIV Golf Team victory. With all four scores counting towards the team’s total, Ripper GC delivered an exceptional performance, with Smith, Herbert, Jones, and Leishman combining to shoot an impressive 11 under-par score, securing a three-shot victory over the tied second-place teams 4Aces GC and Iron Heads GC. Despite facing challenges, Ripper GC remained composed and focused, producing 21 birdies and overcoming two double bogeys to emerge victorious.
Captain Cam Smith expressed his pride in the team’s performance, highlighting the sense of confidence and unity that propelled them to success. With a strong belief in their abilities, Ripper GC showcased their skill and resilience, ultimately securing the championship title. Meanwhile, Dubai-based players Anirban Lahiri and Adrian Meronk also put up noteworthy performances, with Lahiri’s team Crushers GC finishing tied seventh and Meronk’s team Cleeks GC finishing 11th out of 13 teams. The fierce competition and high stakes of the championship added to the excitement, setting the stage for an unforgettable season finale.
Looking ahead, the LIV Golf season continues with the upcoming 2024 LIV Golf Promotions event, where the top three players will earn cards to compete in LIV Golf 2025. The qualifiers will take place at Riyadh Golf Club in December 2024, with the new season set to kick off at Riyadh Golf Club, Saudi Arabia in February 2025. As the excitement and anticipation build for the next season, fans can look forward to more thrilling performances, intense competition, and unforgettable moments on the course.
In terms of results, Ripper GC emerged victorious in the Tier 1 Championship with a score of -11, followed by 4Aces GC and Iron Heads GC tied for second place with a score of -8 each. In the Tier 2 mid-field performers category, Stinger GC and Fireballs GC stood out with scores of -15 and -14 respectively, showcasing their skill and determination. Meanwhile, teams in the Tier 3 struggling category faced challenges, with Majesticks GC, Torque GC, Cleeks GC, RangeGoats GC, and Smash GC contending with varying scores and performances. The diverse range of teams and performances added to the excitement and drama of the Team Championship, demonstrating the depth of talent and competition in the LIV Golf series.