Former World No. 1 and two-time major champion Dustin Johnson is set to bolster an already formidable field at the International Series Philippines, which fires off on October 23 at Sta. Elena Golf Club in Laguna.
Johnson, whose resume includes an undefeated Ryder Cup record over five appearances – highlighted by a dominant 5-0 showing at Whistling Straits in 2021 – joins a stellar lineup that makes this event the most high-profile golf championship in the country since the Johnnie Walker Classic in 1995 at the Orchard Golf and Country Club.
He will be joined by fellow major winners Bubba Watson, Patrick Reed, Charl Schwartzel and Louis Oosthuizen, alongside international standouts Dean Burmester and Marc Leishman. With a $2-million purse, the International Series Philippines promises top-tier competition and world-class shotmaking from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Now a leading figure with LIV Golf’s 4Aces GC, Johnson last played on the International Series circuit at the PIF Saudi International in 2023. His return to Asia and debut in Manila is expected to energize fans and draw new attention to the sport locally.
‘What I love most about the game is that it takes me to places I might never have gone otherwise – and the Philippines is one of those places,’ said Johnson. ‘To be able to play in front of new fans, experience a different culture, and share the excitement of world-class golf in a country that’s still discovering the sport – that’s really special for me.’
Johnson captured the US Open title in 2016 and delivered a record-breaking performance at the 2020 Masters, winning with a tournament-best 20-under-par total. He first reached world No. 1 in 2017, holding the top spot for 64 consecutive weeks – the fifth-longest reign in history – and has spent over 130 weeks in total atop the rankings.
But despite his illustrious achievements, the upcoming International Series event holds special meaning.
‘The International Series is a perfect fit for where I’m at in my career,’ said Johnson. ‘Even though the LIV Golf season is over, I still want to compete, stay sharp, and challenge myself against some of the best players out there.’
Beyond personal goals, Johnson emphasized the broader impact of competing in events like this one: helping to grow the game in emerging markets.
With his addition to the field, the International Series Philippines is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and captivating events on this year’s global golf calendar.
The tournament is the sixth of nine elevated events in the 2025 Asian Tour schedule, offering players from around the world a direct pathway into the LIV Golf League through its season-long rankings race.