LIV Golf spot still feels like ‘pinch me’ moment for Asaji

Japanese star Yosuke Asaji is still coming to terms with the reality of officially becoming a LIV Golf player for the 2026 season, describing the achievement as something he might only truly feel after teeing off in his first event.

RELATED: Get to know Asaji

Securing a place on the LIV Golf League is one of the ultimate goals for every player competing on The International Series this year, yet only two have made it a reality: Asaji and 2025 International Series Rankings champion Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe.

The Japanese golfer’s journey to this milestone has been remarkable. Following his first International Series victory at the Moutai Singapore Open, he earned his LIV card just two weeks later at the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, despite missing the cut.

Even now, Asaji admits the moment still feels surreal.

“It still doesn’t feel real yet," he said. "It’s hard to fully grasp at the moment, but I’ve received so many congratulations. I suppose I’ll understand it better when the time comes.”

Asaji is already looking ahead to the next chapter of his career, focusing on key areas of his game that will allow him to compete at the highest level. Putting, in particular, will be an area of attention.

“I’ll be practising especially within 7 feet to sharpen my short-game skills, and I also plan to work on speaking better English so I can communicate more effectively on tour,” he said.

The opportunity to compete alongside the world’s best players and Major champions excites him most.

“I’m really looking forward to testing myself on a weekly basis against the top players in the world," Asaji said. "It’s an incredible opportunity and a challenge I’m ready to embrace.”

Asaji’s breakthrough has also delighted those closest to him, including his best friend Jinichiro Kozuma, a member of Iron Heads GC on LIV Golf. Kozuma shared how inspiring it has been to watch Asaji’s late-season surge, especially after a challenging stretch on the Japan Tour.

“Towards the end he wasn’t playing well back home, but coming out to these events and performing the way he did really motivated me. I’m thrilled to see him making such a big move in his career.”

Reflecting on his season across The International Series and Asian Tour, Asaji says he is proud of what he has accomplished.

“I never expected to earn a spot in LIV Golf, so I feel very fortunate. I see this as a reward for giving my best at each tournament," he said. “I also plan to continue playing on the Asian Tour and International Series as much as possible next year.”

As he prepares for two remaining tournaments on the Japan Tour before the LIV season opener in Riyadh, Asaji is determined to maintain the same mindset that has brought him success this season.

“I don’t plan to change anything — my focus will be on approaching each tournament with the same mindset and dedication as always,” he explained.

With Asaji and Scott Vincent securing the two LIV Golf places from The International Series Rankings, the focus now shifts to the upcoming LIV Promotions event from Jan. 8–11, 2026 at Black Diamond Ranch GC in Florida, where two more coveted spots will be decided.

It will be an important week for many International Series players. The leading 10 available players from top 20 of the final 2025 International Series Rankings will receive a bye into round two, while the next 25 available players within the top 40, who are not already exempt, will earn entry into round one of the event.