The Master's qualification window is closing, and David Puig knows it. That is why the 24-year-old came to India this week instead of taking a break.

Puig arrived at DLF Golf and Country Club in New Delhi for the Hero Indian Open in good form. He finished tied sixth at LIV Golf South Africa, which helped him reach a career-best world ranking of 75.

According to LIV Golf, one win in India could move him into the top 50, which would secure his place at the 2026 Masters.

Speaking before the event, Puig was clear about why he made the trip.

"I've come all this way to India to try and win and try to get in the Masters," he said. "It would mean everything to compete at Augusta. A dream come true."

This strong run began with a win at the Australian PGA at the end of 2025. That win helped Puig earn a full DP World Tour membership. Before that, he only had affiliate status. He also said he is prepared to pay fines to continue playing more events.

"I've had chances to win," Puig said. "I just haven't made enough birdies."

DLF will not give easy wins, and the course is very tough. Puig clearly knows how hard it is to play there.

"Hitting it far doesn't have any advantage," he said. "You have to keep it straight. There are no average shots; you just have to step up and commit to your targets."

He shot 3 under on the back nine in a practice round, according to Flushing It Golf. It was a good early sign on a course he called “brutal.”

David Puig Knows Exactly What DLF Golf and Country Club Requires, and He Has It

At DLF, accurate tee shots and a strong short game matter the most. Those are the two areas Puig said are his strengths this week.

"My game is good," he said. "I'm hitting it great. If I can do that, I think I have a good chance."

The Masters ranking deadline comes right after the Hero Indian Open. So this is one of the last chances to qualify by playing well.

Puig knows even a win might not be enough, but it doesn’t change his mindset.
“I don’t know if it will be enough,” he said. “But I want to win and do everything I can.”

At 24, traveling around the world often, Puig is not just hoping to play at Augusta, and he is treating it like his job.

Do you think he deserves a spot at Augusta? Share your thoughts below.

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Written by

Sneha Abraham

Edited by

Shraabona Sengupta