Staff WriterInternational Series Macau is back in action, and 2023 Rankings champion Andy Ogletree is leading the charge with his LIV Golf dream firmly in sight.
Returning to the very venue where his ambitions first took flight, Ogletree now finds himself amidst a star-studded lineup of stablemates and Asian Tour luminaries—all vying for glory in this elevated event.
The stage is set for high drama at International Series Macau, the second of ten LIV Golf-backed Asian Tour events this season.
With three coveted spots at The Open Championship on offer, the tournament has added an extra layer of intrigue, promising riveting competition and moments of brilliance.
At just 26, the Mississippi native has already left a significant mark on the 2023 season, clinching victories in Qatar and England while raking in $1,101,828.33 in prize money—nearly $525,000 ahead of his nearest rival.
Reflecting on his relentless schedule and the driving force behind his play, Ogletree confessed,
“That was the main reason I was playing this week to be honest. I’m a bit tired from the start of the year I’ve had, I don’t even know how many weeks I’ve been on the road. It feels like I’ve been gone since Christmas.
Yeah, I’m a bit tired, but obviously, getting into major championships is what I want to do – that’s the goal this week.”
His season’s success has not only secured him the top spot on The International Series Rankings but has also earned him a place on the LIV Golf League roster and the prestigious Asian Tour Order of Merit title.
Though his debut season with Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC team was marred by a wrist injury that saw him finish 34th, Ogletree has since returned to full fitness, ready to reclaim his form on the tour that witnessed his early exploits.
“It’s always great to be with the guys and see everyone. Obviously, the competition this week is really good – everyone’s trying to get into The Open, so that brings out a lot of good players.
I’m sure the scores will be pretty low,” he remarked, underscoring the competitive spirit buzzing around the event. He added,
“It’s just good to play more tournament golf and get more reps under my belt. To be honest you can’t really get better unless you play tournaments, so having The International Series to supplement my schedule is definitely a real bonus.”
Reflecting on his remarkable journey from a hopeful young amateur to a seasoned competitor rubbing shoulders with legends, Ogletree couldn’t help but marvel at his own transformation.
“Sometimes it hits me, and I’m like, ‘Wow, I’m getting to do some crazy stuff.’ And not even just Phil – just the lifestyle, the travel, and all the cool things that come with playing on LIV Golf. But yeah, I get some incredible moments with Phil.” He continued,
“Things like him giving me a few pointers around the greens, talking about my swing, and sharing things he sees – it’s amazing to be able to pick his brain.
He’s one of the greatest of all time, and to be able to consider him a close friend and someone who helps me so much is pretty crazy.
I went from standing in line trying to get his autograph as a kid to hanging out with him all the time. It’s really cool. Definitely a pinch-me moment.”
As the tournament unfolds from March 20 to 23, fans and followers are invited to witness this blend of raw talent, relentless determination, and a touch of golf magic that only events like International Series Macau can deliver.
Entry is complimentary for all four days—registration is required at this link. For further details on The International Series, please visit www.internationalseries.com.
In a game where every swing tells a story, Ogletree’s journey at International Series Macau is shaping up to be a classic tale of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of greatness—one that even a golf aficionado like David Feherty would tip his cap to.
