Planet Golf News - February 23, 2024

Erik van Rooyen takes an early lead in the Mexico Open at Vidanta with an impressive 8-under 63, making two eagles along the way. Sami Valimaki and Cristobal del Solar are close behind with scores of 64 and 65 respectively. Van Rooyen, who won the World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico last November, is aiming for his second PGA Tour title in the country. [newsday.com]

At the 2024 Mexico Open, Chile's Cristobal del Solar and South Africa's Erik van Rooyen stood out for their performances and inspiring stories. Del Solar's record-breaking journey and van Rooyen's love affair with Mexican golf showcased their talent and resilience. The tournament also featured notable performances from other players, with a coveted invitation to the Masters at stake. The Mexico Open continues to be a place where talent is tested and legends are made, transcending borders and captivating the human spirit. [bnnbreaking.com]

LIV Golf has partnered with Panini to produce golf trading cards, offering fans the opportunity to collect images of their favorite players and teams. Panini will release autographed physical trading cards, team sets, and special releases depicting tournament highlights. The partnership aims to bring professional golf to the level of other sporting leagues by creating collectibles for fans of all ages. [golfmonthly.com]

LIV Golf and Panini Group have reached an agreement to produce trading cards for the circuit. Fans have mixed opinions, with some suggesting that LIV Golf should focus on selling tickets first. Panini Group, known for producing collectible items, has a long history of producing trading cards for various sports. The agreement aims to bring back the tradition of golf trading cards and includes plans for a high-end line and promotional activities with players. [sportskeeda.com]

Rory McIlroy, Max Homa, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang discuss their excitement for Capital One's The Match, the impact of playing under the lights, the importance of growing the game of golf, and the unique aspects of mixed golf. They highlight the relatability and fun of The Match, the opportunity to showcase women's golf, and the potential for future combined events. They also express their admiration for each other's skills and discuss the appeal of golf played under the lights. Overall, they are thrilled to be a part of The Match and believe it will have a positive impact on the game of golf. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Joaquin Niemann is "super excited" to receive a special invite to The Masters in April. Despite struggling to make the field, Niemann's recent success, including winning the Australian Open and the opening LIV Golf event, secured his invitation. This will be his fifth trip to Augusta National, and he is looking forward to the challenge. [golfmonthly.com]

Jon Rahm reveals J.J. Watt as the worst celebrity golfer he's played with, sparking a potential rivalry. Rahm jokingly criticizes Watt's strength and size, suggesting it hampers his golf game. The article speculates on whether they will reconcile or settle the score on the golf course. [golfdigest.com]

Golf legend Tiger Woods is a proud father of two children, Charlie and Sam. Charlie, now 14, has been competing on the junior golf circuit and has even played alongside his father. Sam, who is 16, honored her father by introducing him at his induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame. [abcnews.go.com]

LIV Golf's Brooks Koepka expressed his respect for Rory McIlroy and his drive to "one-up" him in their golf careers. Koepka aims to surpass McIlroy's major titles and considers him one of the best players ever. After winning the 2023 PGA Championship, Koepka declared his return to form. [clutchpoints.com]

Rory McIlroy and Max Homa express openness to playing under the lights in a PGA Tour event. They highlight the challenges and unique experience of night golf, suggesting it could be experimented with in bigger tournaments. The ninth iteration of Capital One's The Match, featuring McIlroy, Homa, Rose Zhang, and Lexi Thompson, will take place under the lights at The Park in West Palm Beach. [golfdigest.com]

Tommy Fleetwood has enlisted the help of performance coach Kolby Tullier to improve his golf game. Tullier discussed the training routines and exercises Fleetwood has incorporated to strengthen his posture and improve his swing. Fleetwood's collaboration with Tullier has already yielded positive results, with a win at the 2024 Dubai Invitational. Tullier has extensive experience working with professional golfers and athletes from other sports. [sportskeeda.com]

The COVID-19 pandemic has unexpectedly led to a resurgence in the popularity of golf. With limited recreational options available, Americans turned to golf, resulting in a significant increase in rounds played. The trend has continued, with more people taking up the game and courses experiencing high demand. This boom has surpassed previous declines in the sport, and experts believe that golf is now better positioned for long-term growth. [washingtonexaminer.com]

Japan has produced top-tier golfers who have contributed to the sport's popularity in the country. Hideki Matsuyama, the first Japanese player to win a major, is regarded as one of the most impressive Japanese players on the PGA Tour. Yuta Ikeda has dominated the Japan Golf Tour, while Isao Aoki has had stellar performances on both the PGA Tour and Japan Golf Tour. Shigeki Maruyama achieved success on the PGA Tour and had a best finish of fourth place in a major. These golfing legends have paved the way for aspiring players in Asia. [nationalclubgolfer.com]

Augusta National Golf Club has invited Joaquin Niemann to play in the 2024 Masters, bypassing the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) and rising above the noise surrounding the PGA Tour vs. LIV Golf debate. This move highlights the enduring significance of the four major championships and their ability to assemble the best fields possible. While the invitation does not take a side, it recognizes Niemann's talent and adds validity to the majors, emphasizing their elevated status in a divided golf landscape. [cbssports.com]

The 2024 PGA Tour season introduces the Aon Next 10 and Aon Swing 5, new qualification systems that provide opportunities for golf's rising stars to participate in prestigious limited-field events. These systems highlight unique stories of players who earn their spots, such as Christiaan Bezuidenhout, who used strong early season performances to qualify for the first two Signature Events. The Aon Next 10 and Aon Swing 5 will be refreshed for each upcoming signature event. [golfdigest.com]

The landscape of golf has changed, with players competing in different tournaments around the world, making it difficult to see all the best players on the same stage. The majors have always been the pinnacle of golf, but the gap between them and other tournaments is growing. The PGA Tour and LIV Golf offer different experiences, and the exclusivity of LIV Golf has caused some players to miss out on major tournaments. The future of exemptions and invitations for the majors is uncertain, and it remains to be seen if all the best players will continue to participate in them. [victoriaadvocate.com]

Agent Chubby Chandler believes that the PGA Tour and LIV Golf will not merge, but can coexist as separate tours. He suggests that the PGA Tour could finish in August and LIV Golf could take over, with the possibility of LIV players participating in major tournaments in the future. Chandler sees the competition between the two tours generating more interest in golf and believes that both sides could benefit from the increased attention. The SSG investment in the PGA Tour is expected to bring progress and financial value to the tour. [tennisworldusa.org]

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley's announcement of the invitees for the 2024 Masters, which included Thorbjørn Olesen, Ryo Hisatsune, and Joaquin Niemann, revealed the club's view of the LIV Golf tour. The omission of Niemann's LIV win and affiliation suggests that Augusta National does not see the tour as a legitimate competitive entity. This highlights the ongoing tension and uncertainty surrounding LIV's place in the professional golf landscape. [golf.com]

Augusta National, the iconic golf course, is navigating the shifting landscape of the sport. The emergence of the LIV Golf tour challenges tradition and raises questions about legacy. While some elite golfers have joined LIV Golf, Augusta National has shown inclusivity by inviting LIV Golf players to the Masters. The impact of LIV Golf on the competitive dynamics and the future of tradition in golf are being considered. Augusta National aims to balance tradition and adaptation as it charts a course for the future of the sport. [bnnbreaking.com]

Greg Norman's claim that the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) is obsolete and discriminatory towards LIV Golf tournaments is criticized by Eamon Lynch. The OWGR denied LIV's application for recognition due to concerns about the relegation process and simultaneous individual and team events. Norman's argument that golfers should receive ranking points based on name recognition alone is debunked, as the OWGR ranks golfers competing on tours with verified competitive integrity. The criticisms highlight players' desire to be exempt from the consequences of their decisions and Norman's attempt to shift blame for LIV's failure to deliver on promises. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Former manager Andrew 'Chubby' Chandler believes that Rory McIlroy could surprise the golf world by signing with the breakaway league LIV Golf. Chandler notes a significant shift in McIlroy's stance towards LIV and suggests that McIlroy could command around £750m if he signs with the league. Chandler also expresses his belief that McIlroy has a good chance of winning the Masters this year, given his current mindset and form. [irishgolfer.ie]

Professional golfer Paige Spiranac has sparked rumors of a potential career switch to NASCAR. With her recent tweets expressing interest in the sport and her previous involvement with race cars, fans speculate that she may be considering a collaboration or partnership in the world of stock car racing. Spiranac's diverse background in golf and other sports, as well as her large following and endorsements, make her a compelling candidate for such a venture. [essentiallysports.com]

Paige Spiranac, a prominent figure in the golf community, opens up about her anxiety of going to a golf course alone. Despite her success, she still gets nervous and worries about others' reactions. However, she encourages players to focus on their own game and not be ashamed to ask for directions or seek guidance. Spiranac aims to create a more positive and uplifting golfing environment. [yebscore.com]

Golf influencer Paige Spiranac is flattered by copycats attempting to follow her style of influencing. She believes that more influencers in the golf industry can make the game more welcoming for women. Despite competition, she sees it as a positive and is enjoying the success she has achieved through social media. [blacksportsonline.com]

Despite her high-profile marriage to Tiger Woods and her son's potential in golf, Elin Nordegren's first love might not be golf. She has a particular liking for skiing and has also engaged in triathlon. However, she still has a genuine passion for golf and is often seen playing on her own schedule and terms. [essentiallysports.com]

Highlights from the opening round of the Magical Kenya Open at the Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi.

David Puig leads the International Series Oman after the first round, shooting a seven-under-par 65. His playing partner Joaquin Niemann is in second place with a score of 66. Puig's impressive performance follows his win at the IRS Prima Malaysian Open. The tournament is taking place at Al Mouj Golf in Muscat, Oman. [livgolf.com]

A video of a man unknowingly attempting to correct a female PGA golf professional's swing has gone viral. Despite her polite explanations, the man continues to give unsolicited advice and takes credit for her improvement. The incident has sparked criticism and calls to reject mansplaining. [whiskeyriff.com]

The Vanderbilt Men's Golf team emerged victorious in the Watersound Invitational, led by Gordon Sargent and Cole Sherwood. Vanderbilt finished with a total team score of -29, securing a comfortable nine-stroke victory over Florida State and Georgia Tech. The team displayed dominant golf over three days, with five of their six players placing in the top 15. This win marks Vanderbilt's second consecutive victory in the tournament. [vanderbilthustler.com]

Eating and snacking properly on the golf course can improve performance. Michael Phelps, a world-class swimmer, emphasizes the importance of maintaining energy levels and avoiding crashes. He recommends snacking every three to four holes and having quality foods like sandwiches, bars, and nuts. Experts also suggest snacking on quality foods every three to four holes and staying hydrated to maintain steady blood sugar levels and performance. [golf.com]

Jordan Spieth's disqualification at the Genesis Invitational had an impact on golf bets, which were graded as a loss. Sportsbook house rules generally state that if a player is disqualified after participating in the event, the bet will be considered a loss. It is advisable for bettors to review the golf betting house rules of their chosen sportsbooks to understand how such instances are handled. [legalsportsreport.com]

Filler talks her three wins this season, her background in the game, her many superstitions and much more. [nbcsports.com]

Toulon Golf has released its 2024 First Run line of milled putters, featuring 11 models across eight head shapes. The putters are made of 303 stainless steel, with some models featuring a lightweight 6061 aluminum sole plate for improved stability. The collection includes both blade and mallet head styles, with various toe hang options to accommodate different stroke types. The putters have undergone changes in weight distribution and face milling to enhance performance and feel. The sole weights are adjustable, allowing for customization, and the putters come in a darker brown finish. [golfdigest.com]

TAG Heuer and Malbon Golf have collaborated on a connected timepiece, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition, which offers a wide range of functionalities for health, wellness, and golf. The watch tracks shots automatically, provides club choice recommendations, and offers information on each hole. The collaboration also includes an apparel and accessories collection, featuring Malbon's signature yellow and green colors. The collection will be released on Malbon's website on February 26, with prices ranging from $40 to $500 USD for apparel and accessories, and $2350 USD for the watch. [hypebeast.com]

Louis Vuitton is entering the golfing world with a range of luxury products, including a golf bag, accessories, and a golf trunk. The collaboration with Tyler, the Creator and Pharrell Williams adds a fresh vibe to the luxury golf scene. Louis Vuitton aims to redefine luxury in golf by focusing on quality, design, and authenticity. This venture presents both challenges and opportunities in the luxury sports market, with the potential to carve a unique niche and enrich the golfing experience. [bnnbreaking.com]

In the world of LIV Golf, where many players are without equipment contracts, the surprising leader in driver usage is the PING G430 LST. Despite having staff players, including Joaquin Niemann and Louis Oosthuizen, there are also many golfers using the PING driver without any financial incentive. Other notable driver brands include Callaway, with players like Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson opting for Paradym or Paradym Smoke Ai models. [golf.com]

Adam Scott discusses his approach to equipment, including his interest in gear, testing processes, and the impact of different clubs on his game. He also talks about his passion for watches and his thoughts on retirement. Scott emphasizes the importance of putting and how it has evolved for him over the years. [golf.com]

PUMA Golf has released the new PHANTOMCAT NITRO golf shoe, featuring NITROGEN INFUSED FOAM for improved rebound and lightweight responsiveness. The shoe also includes a new anatomically shaped last, a FLEXSPIKE design for enhanced traction, and other features such as full grain leather uppers and a moulded heel panel. The PHANTOMCAT NITRO is praised for its combination of traction and comfort, making it PUMA Golf's most advanced shoe to date. [golfshake.com]

Adidas has launched the Tour360 24 golf shoes, a redesigned version of its premium flagship footwear franchise. The new shoe focuses on fit, performance, and durability, with features such as Insite 2.0 sockliner for better fit, a TPU 'torsion bridge' for stability, and Jet Boost and Lightstrike technologies for cushioning and stability. The Tour360 24 also includes a BOA model for improved fit and performance. The shoes will be available in various colorways for men, women, and juniors. [hypebeast.com]

Louis Vuitton's collaboration with Tyler, the Creator on a golf collection is hailed as high-fashion's best golf execution to date. The collection includes a grass-green Damier golf bag, headcovers, a golf sneaker, a coordinating cross-body bag, and garments like a reversible windbreaker and zip cardigan. The quality construction and considered silhouettes set this collection apart, signaling a shift towards luxury fashion brands embracing golf apparel. [esquire.com]

Shane reveals the 14 clubs he relies on each week and how they are set up to help him perform at his best. From his Srixon ZX5 MK II driver to his Z-Star XV ball, find out what he carries here. [dailymotion.com]

The future of Oakleigh Golf Course in Melbourne is set to be decided by the local Monash Council. The council will vote on whether to retain the golf course or close it and create parkland. The golf course has received support from the community, disability service provider Reach and Belong, and neighboring private golf clubs. Golf Australia has also backed the golf course's right to survive. The decision is expected to consider the impact on the community and the potential for the golf course to serve as a community hub. [australiangolfdigest.com.au]

Learn key tips from some of the best golf swings in the world. Rory McIlroy focuses on stretching the lead arm, Lexi Thompson uses a resistance band to load the trail hip, Rose Zhang emphasizes transferring weight to the lead side, and Max Homa suggests keeping wrists quiet on wedge shots for consistent contact. [golfdigest.com]

Amateur golfer Joe achieved significant improvement in his game, shaving seven strokes off his handicap, winning his club tournament, and scoring his first hole-in-one. His success was attributed to five key changes: adjusting his grip, transitioning from a ferris wheel to a merry-go-round swing, adopting a PGA Tour-level finish, understanding his carry distances, and working with golf teacher Mark Durland to develop a simple, effective game plan. [golf.com]

In a June 1978 issue of GOLF Magazine, Arnold Palmer shared the key to generating maximum power off the tee: having a hook swing. He explained that learning to hook the ball is essential for maximum distance, as many great golfers started out as hookers and later learned to control it. Palmer compared the weak slice swing pattern to the strong hook swing pattern, emphasizing the importance of grip, setup, backswing, and downswing. He concluded that starting with a strong grip and hook swing pattern, and then modifying it over time, can lead to hitting the ball straight with built-in power points for increased distance. golf.com]

Payne Stewart's tip for checking your ball position is to hold your golf club with your left hand (if you're a righty) behind the ball and drop it backward towards your left knee. If the club hits just above your left knee, you're in the correct position. If it hits below your knee, you're too far away, and if it hits way up on your thigh, you're too close. [golf.com]

Links2Golf offers exclusive rates on select golf courses worldwide, allowing members to save on green fees and explore different courses. With up to 50% off guest green fees and the ability to book up to 14 days in advance, members can save up to $80 per month. The membership includes access to clubs in 54 countries, with highlighted courses such as TPC Sawgrass in Florida, Box Hill Golf Club in Melbourne, and Olgiata Golf Club in Rome. Membership plans start as low as ~$50 per month. [themanual.com]

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.