Rocester, England (July 27, 2025) — Joaquin Niemann, the Chilean prodigy and Captain of Torque GC, has overhauled his entire support team just days before the LIV Golf UK event. In a candid media session, Niemann explained the reasons behind parting ways with his longtime caddie and swing coach.
What He Said
After posting a brilliant 8‑under 63 in the second round at JCB Golf & Country Club, Niemann addressed the changes in his team:
- He admitted feeling low on confidence heading into the week, especially after missing the cut by a single shot at The Open at Royal Portrush.
- Despite his recent LIV success, including four wins in 2025, Niemann said the results in major championships had not met his expectations, prompting the shake‑up.
- On his former team, Niemann said: “I’m really grateful for them… but I was pretty frustrated … after a bad result, obviously at The Open… it’s part of it.”
Who’s Leaving and Who’s In
- Caddie Gary Matthews, who had been with Niemann since the 2020 U.S. Open, was dismissed following his disappointment at The Open.
- Coach Eduardo Miquel, Niemann’s swing coach since he turned professional in 2018, was also let go.
His new caddie for LIV Golf UK is Diego Salinas, a friend and Chilean Golf Tour professional. The identity of his new coach has not yet been confirmed.
Why Now?
Sources close to Niemann suggest the timing was not solely about missed cuts. Miquel had reportedly stepped away for personal reasons before LIV Golf Valderrama, indicating that the coach’s departure was already in motion. Still, Niemann said he felt a reset was needed, with new voices and strategies to help build confidence ahead of the season’s final stretch.
LIV Season vs. Major Reality
Niemann has enjoyed a strong year on LIV Golf, capturing four titles in 2025 and positioning himself as one of the favorites for the individual championship. Yet his record in major championships tells a different story, with missed cuts at both the U.S. Open and The Open and only modest finishes at the Masters (T29) and PGA Championship (T8).
Despite the upheaval, Niemann leads LIV Golf UK by six shots heading into the final round and appears poised for his fifth win of the season and a potential first-ever individual title.
