Rory McIlroy will headline a star-studded field at the 2025 Australian Open, where four LIV Golf stars have officially joined the lineup for what promises to be one of the most competitive events of the year.
The PGA Tour of Australasia announced that Joaquin Niemann, Carlos Ortiz, Sebastian Muñoz, and Josele Ballester will all tee it up at Royal Melbourne Golf Club from December 4–7. Their addition means seven LIV golfers will compete in the event, including Australian favorites Cam Smith, Marc Leishman, and Lucas Herbert, whose participation was previously confirmed.
The Australian Open, one of golf’s oldest national championships, will see McIlroy return for the first time since his victory in 2013. The Northern Irishman will look to cap off his year in style as part of a global run of events to close out 2025.
Meanwhile, 2023 champion Joaquin Niemann enters the tournament in red-hot form, having already claimed five victories this season and cemented his reputation as one of LIV Golf’s standout stars. The Chilean, who previously competed at Royal Melbourne during the 2019 Presidents Cup, expressed his excitement about returning.
“It’s always an honor to play in a championship like the Australian Open,” Niemann said. “Having the opportunity to compete again at Royal Melbourne, and as a past champion, makes it even more special. I have great memories of the course and can’t wait to be back.”
He added that the course’s unique design demands strategy and precision:
“Royal Melbourne is one of those courses where you really need a plan and have to shape your shots. To finish the year by lifting the Stonehaven Cup again would be a perfect end to 2025.”
Carlos Ortiz, another LIV Golf representative, echoed Niemann’s enthusiasm about heading Down Under.
“Australia is one of the best places in the world to play golf—not just because of the courses, but the fans. They create an incredible atmosphere,” Ortiz said. “I’m looking forward to spending two weeks there—first in Brisbane for the BMW Australian PGA Championship and then in Melbourne for the Australian Open.”
The return of global stars like McIlroy, along with the growing presence of LIV Golf players, has reinvigorated interest in the Australian Open. With major champions, past winners, and fan favorites all in the mix, Royal Melbourne is set to host a memorable showdown to close out the 2025 golf calendar.
