USA Golfer John Catlin Sees Bright Future for Indian Golf Thanks to International Series, Expresses His Love for Indian Cuisine

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US Golfer John Catlin, a seasoned pro with six Asian Tour victories and three European Tour titles under his belt, is set to begin his 2025 campaign at the highly anticipated International Series India presented by DLF.

Catlin (34) had an extraordinary 2024, highlighted by back-to-back Asian Tour victories, including a record-breaking 59 at the International Series Macau and a thrilling playoff triumph at the Saudi Open.

Though he came close to winning titles at the International Series Morocco and the Black Mountain Championship, he made a strong impression as an alternate in the LIV Golf League, securing a T7 finish across six appearances for teams like Crushers GC, Smash GC, and Legion XIII.

As the International Series India debuts at the challenging DLF Golf & Country Club, carrying a prize pool of $2 million, is set to give a major boost to the sport in India. Top golf royalty on the Asian and European Tours are set to participate in this competition, scheduled between January 30 and February 2, allowing the fans to witness them up close and the budding golfers to rub shoulders and learn from them.

In an exclusive interview with MyKhel, Catlin shares his thoughts on the tournament, the evolving dynamics of professional golf, and his aspirations for the 2025 season, and he also looks forward to relishing authentic Indian food during his stay.

Here are excerpts from the exclusive session with John Catlin:

Q: I'll start with one of Rory McIlroy's comments from January, where he expressed hope that Donald Trump, as President of the USA, could ease the standoff between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. What's your take on the ongoing imbroglio, and do you think Mr. Trump can broker peace between the two parties?

A: I honestly don't know what's happening behind the scenes. From an outsider's perspective, it seems like things are moving in the right direction. I think it would be great for golf if the top players could come together and compete consistently. But as for the future, that's above my pay grade-we'll have to wait and see.

Q: Reflecting on your incredible season in 2024, especially your historic round of 59 in Macau, what do you think was the secret behind your success, and what are your plans for 2025?

A: To answer that question, there are no secrets. I've just been putting in a lot of effort. Me and my coach have been working hard at it. We believe in our process and in what we're doing. For 2025, (we're) just going to continue working hard and achieve even better results. We're looking forward to the opportunities that come across our way this year.

Q: Take us through that incredible performance in Macau. What was going through your mind during the final holes?

A: It was an amazing week. I didn't even realize I'd shot 28 on the front nine - I just knew I was six under. It wasn't until the 16th hole that I thought about the possibility of shooting 59. I hit two perfect shots on the last hole and made a big-breaking putt to seal it. It's a moment I'll never forget.

Q: With the International Series India making its debut, what are your thoughts on its significance for Indian and Asian golf?

A: It's fantastic. I played at DLF Golf & Country Club during the 2019 Hero Indian Open, and it's a great course that demands excellence in every aspect of the game. This tournament is a significant step forward for Indian golf, and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

Q: The DLF Golf & Country Club is also known for its difficulty. How excited are you to return after nearly five years?

A: Extremely excited. I think it's going to be a challenge right from the get-go. It's going to show you where you're at, where you stand as a golfer. I think you're getting some of the best golfers in the world coming and that's a testament to show you how great the event is. I think it's a great thing for Indian golf going forward.

Q: Anirban Lahiri will be a local favourite. How do you see the crowd's energy and your experience competing on Indian soil?

A: Anirban is a phenomenal player and deserves all the support he gets. I think it's fantastic to have the crowd backing their local hero. For me, it's always exciting to compete in such passionate atmospheres. I just look forward to the opportunity to challenge him down the stretch, and may the best man win.

Q: What are your thoughts on the partnership between the Asian Tour and LIV Golf, and how has it reshaped professional golf?

A: It's a great partnership. I've been fortunate to benefit from both the Asian Tour and LIV Golf. Experiencing it firsthand has been incredible - it's truly a remarkable product and an amazing initiative to be part of. This partnership is something special, and it's great to see more players taking notice.

The collaboration has attracted stronger players to the Asian Tour, further establishing it as a viable pathway. While it has always been a credible route, the increased recognition it's receiving now is well-deserved. Personally, this marks my 10th year with status on the Asian Tour, and I've always valued it as a fantastic platform. It's great to see it being celebrated and appreciated on a larger scale.

Q: With six Asian Tour wins and three European Tour titles under your belt, what are your plans for this year in 2025? The goals?

A: To win the International Series rankings and win a major championship. That would be, you can see the flags behind me. I wouldn't mind adding a champion flag up there.

Q: Coming back to the major you mentioned, John - the International Series India and similar tournaments. How do these events, which offer crucial World Golf Ranking points, impact your journey to improve your rankings and secure a spot in the majors?

A: World Golf Ranking points are incredibly important, not just for securing spots in major championships but also for opening up other opportunities. For example, being in the top 100 gets you into the PGA Championship, and as you climb higher, you qualify for even more majors.

Fortunately, because I won the Asian Tour Order of Merit, I've already earned spots in The Open and the PGA Championship - two fantastic opportunities I'm excited about. These events also offer significant ranking points, so strong performances can pave the way for next year's majors.

Ultimately, that top 50 is the goal for all of us since it guarantees entry into everything, including the Masters. Playing in the Masters has been a dream of mine since I was a kid-it's such a prestigious event, and I'd love to be part of it. So, starting the year with a chance to earn ranking points is something I'm really looking forward to.

Q: That's great to hear! Lastly, John, is there anything specific you're looking forward to experiencing in India, both on and off the course?

A: Oh, definitely the food! I absolutely love Indian cuisine. It's always delicious, but there's nothing like having it authentically in India. I've had Indian food all over the world, but I'm sure this will be even better. Of course, I'm excited about the challenge the golf course will present - it's going to be a good test. And off the course, I'm hoping to visit the Taj Mahal. I haven't had the chance to see it yet, and it's something I've always wanted to experience. So, overall, I think it's going to be a great trip!