Bryson DeChambeau makes major Joaquin Niemann prediction

Bryson DeChambeau has his sights on a first PGA Championship title this week, but the LIV man has plenty of competition.

World No.1 Scottie Scheffler and Masters champion Rory McIlroy headline the field, while a total of 15 players from the Saudi-backed circuit are in action at Quail Hollow.

One of those is Joaquin Niemann.

The Chilean has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of LIV Golf, having won five individual titles since joining the start-up two years ago. That includes three wins in 2025, alone.

But a maiden major championship has eluded Niemann so far, in fact, after 23 major appearances, he is yet to finish inside the top 15.

While he’s been made well aware of that fact, fellow LIV star DeChambeau reckons it’s a matter of time before that’s put to bed.

• ‘I don’t care’ – Keegan Bradley reiterates LIV Ryder Cup stance

• PGA of America boss urges LIV to make rankings decision

“I do believe Joaquín at some point in time will get a major,” the American said ahead of this week’s championship. “I think it’s just a matter of time.

“Not if I have anything to say about that, but he’s an incredible golfer, won a bunch on LIV. His form is incredible.

“It’s not easy to win in majors. It’s just a different elevation and feeling, and he’s young, so he’s got a lot of time.”

DeChambeau, who has two US Open titles to his name, compared Niemann’s situation to that of Sergio Garcia.

The Spaniard made his major debut at the 1996 Open Championship but went 21 years without glory in the game’s ‘big four’.

• Jon Rahm makes feelings clear on Ryder Cup hopes

• LIV star makes major demand ahead of PGA Championship

“There is a likeness to it,” DeChambeau said. “I think he’s a great successful player. There’s still some learning to do.

“A lot of it’s not really material. You can’t really define exactly what it is until you get in that position enough times and you’re comfortable enough and you do it.

“One of them being Sergio. Sergio was so close so many times and finally won the Masters. It just happens.”

Niemann sealed his place in the PGA Championship field via a special invite from the PGA of America. He was also invited to last month’s Masters and has exemptions for the remaining two majors this year.

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.