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

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: The International Series Rankings champion Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe, and Asaji by finishing second on the Rankings.

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 Golf card just two weeks later at the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, the Series’ season ending event, despite missing the cut.

Even now, Asaji admits the moment still feels surreal. “It still doesn’t feel real yet. 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.”

Yosuke Asaji with the Moutai Singapore Open trophy.

He 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 seven 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. 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 League.

Kozuma shared how inspiring it has been to watch Asaji’s late-season surge, especially after a challenging stretch on the Japan Tour. He explained: “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.”

Scott Vincent and Yosuke Asaji with the gold coins they received for finishing first and second on The International Series Rankings.

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.

“I also plan to continue playing on the Asian Tour and International Series as much as possible next year.”

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

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.