Planet Golf News - February 5, 2024

Wyndham Clark won the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and received a winner's paycheck of $3.6 million from the event's $20,000,000 purse. Ludvig Aberg settled for second place and won $2.1 million, while Matthieu Pavon finished third and won $1.3 million. [sportskeeda.com]

The 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has been suspended due to inclement weather conditions, frustrating golf fans. The tournament may conclude at 54 holes if the weather persists. Fans expressed frustration and suggested alternative formats like LIV Golf. Wyndham Clark currently leads the tournament after a record-setting round. The tournament must start by 10:15 a.m. on Monday to complete play. [sportskeeda.com]

Justin Thomas is confident and back in his groove at Pebble Beach after a winless last season. He is currently tied for sixth position on the leaderboard, four strokes behind the leader, and hopes to finish the tournament on a high note. Thomas reflects on his game being on the right track and emphasizes the importance of focusing on his strengths rather than experiments. Despite missing out on winning a tournament last year, he feels in control of his game and is not forcing things. The final round of the tournament has been postponed to Monday. [thesportsrush.com]

During the third round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Matt Fitzpatrick encountered trouble in the bunker, resulting in a triple bogey on the third hole. This unfortunate incident led to a score of 76 for the round, making it challenging for him to climb up the leaderboard. Despite this setback, Fitzpatrick has had notable successes in his golf career, including winning the US Open in 2022 and securing victories in various tournaments. He will now need to bounce back in order to improve his position in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. [firstsportz.com]

The third round of the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am had several surprises, including Wyndham Clark's impressive performance and controversial course record. Ludvig Aberg maintained a good pace, Matthieu Pavon shot well, Rory McIlroy struggled, and Jason Day had an impressive performance. [sportskeeda.com]

Wyndham Clark credits changes to his putter for his impressive 12-under-par round of 60 at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Clark worked with a putting coach prior to the tournament and made significant changes to his putter, including removing the line, shortening the length, and switching to a cross-hand grip. These changes, along with using an Odyssey Versa Jailbird mallet putter, helped Clark make over 190 feet worth of putts and secure the top position on the leaderboard. [golfmonthly.com]

Matthieu Pavon is in the last round of the PGA Tour at Pebble Beach, currently in 3rd place. He scored a 66 (-6) and will be playing alongside Ludvig Åberg and leader Wyndham Clark. Clark set a course record with a historic 60 (-12). Pavon, the winner of the 2023 US Open, continues to climb the ranks in world golf. [swing-feminin.com]

Joaquin Niemann wins the LIV Golf Mayakboba in a thrilling playoff against Sergio Garcia. Niemann had a two-shot penalty in the second round but still managed to prevail. However, his victory does not earn him any ranking points, keeping him ineligible for certain majors. The team aspect of the tournament was won by Legion XIII, led by Jon Rahm and including Tyrrell Hatton. [golfmonthly.com]

LIV Golf's Mayakoba champion Joaquin Niemann expressed his desire to compete in the majors despite LIV Golf not receiving Official World Golf Ranking points. Niemann's victory highlighted the league's mission to deepen its fields and make its product more compelling. LIV Golf has recently signed top players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, and aims to send more of its players to the majors once the involvement of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund with the PGA Tour is determined. [golfdigest.com]

Jon Rahm and his team, Legion XIII, dominated the LIV Golf Mayakoba season opener, posting a 24-under score to win the tournament. Rahm finished solo third but missed out on the individual title due to back-to-back bogeys. Joaquin Niemann eventually won in a playoff. Caleb Surratt, making his professional debut, tied for 13th. Legion XIII made a strong statement in their first event, showcasing the competitiveness of the Saudi-backed league. [sbnation.com

Richard Bland made a hole-in-one on the 152-yard, par-3 8th hole during the final round of the LIV Golf Mayakoba tournament. Although it wasn't enough to win the tournament, it was a memorable highlight for Bland, who celebrated his 51st birthday over the weekend. [livgolf.com]

Joaquin Niemann received a two-shot penalty during LIV Golf's tournament at El Camaleon Golf Course after a video review of a Saturday afternoon drop. This penalty reduced his lead from four shots to two, improving Jon Rahm's chances of winning. Niemann's drop was deemed to be from a wrong place, resulting in the penalty under Rule 14.7a. The LIV rules committee revised Niemann's score for Round Two, changing his par five on the 13th hole to a double-bogey seven. [golf.com]

The 2024 LIV Golf Mayakoba tournament has a $25 million purse, with the winner receiving $4,000,000. The prize money payout breakdown guarantees earnings for all 54 players, with the last-place player receiving $50,000. In addition to money, the winner earns LIV Golf points towards the year-end bonus pool, but no Official World Golf Ranking points. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Joaquin Niemann expresses his desire for LIV Golf players to be allowed to compete in major championships after defeating Sergio Garcia in an epic playoff at Mayakoba. Despite his victory, Niemann laments the current restrictions that prevent LIV Golf players from participating in golf's marquee events. He hopes that his performance will catch the attention of relevant bodies and earn him a spot in future majors. [clutchpoints.com]

Joaquin Niemann won the 2024 LIV Golf Mayakoba event, defeating Sergio Garcia in a playoff. Jon Rahm finished third after bogeying his final two holes. The final leaderboard showed Niemann at -12, Garcia at -12, Rahm tied with Dean Burmester at -10, and Dustin Johnson, Charles Howell III, and Brooks Koepka tied at -8. [sportskeeda.com]

Jon Rahm fell just short of victory in his first LIV event in Mexico, losing a ball off the tee on the second-last hole. Despite this, his team, Legion XIII, won the opening team victory of the season. Rahm's immediate impact and strong performance indicate that the guaranteed prize money events and his massive sign-on fee will not affect his drive for success. Australian golfer Joaquin Niemann won the season-opening event in a playoff against Sergio Garcia, with Rahm finishing third. [news.com.au]

Fans of LIV Golf are divided over the league's use of music during tournaments, with some finding it entertaining and others considering it distracting "white noise." While some support the inclusion of music for its spectator experience and reduced policing of fans, others argue that it hampers the tension-building on the final holes. LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman has reportedly made changes to address the criticism and reduce the volume of the music played during events. [essentiallysports.com]

Jon Rahm shares his experience at the LIV Golf Mayakoba tournament, mentioning the familiar vibe and music on the course. He praises Joaquin Niemann's impressive performance and discusses his own solid play in the first two rounds, currently tied for third place. [sportskeeda.com]

Jon Rahm was caught swearing on a hot mic during his LIV Golf debut tournament, uttering expletives on the eighth and 18th holes. Despite a strong start, Rahm encountered setbacks towards the end of his round. The footage received mixed responses, with some fans finding it entertaining and others criticizing the use of foul language in a kid-friendly sport. Rahm addressed the media, highlighting the differences between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. He mentioned the presence of music on the course and expressed his enjoyment of the unique atmosphere. [mirror.co.uk]

Phil Mickelson, one of the greatest golfers of all time, has struggled since joining LIV Golf in 2022. In the 2024 LIV campaign at Mayakoba, Mickelson recorded his worst-ever finish on the circuit, placing T-51 and shooting +11 in relation to par. He has only achieved two top-10 finishes since joining LIV Golf. [heavy.com]

The golf world is divided over the team format of the LIV Tour, with traditionalists expressing their disapproval. The LIV Tour, known for its brash and unconventional approach, features a three-day 54-hole format, par 3 party holes, and a shotgun start. While some fans find it entertaining, others find it distracting and believe it takes away from the importance of the individual game. The LIV Tour is set to merge with the PGA Tour, and LIV CEO Greg Norman believes more top players will join the rebel tour. [news.com.au]

Sergio Garcia has upgraded his golf kit for the 2024 LIV Golf season, including a rare putter called the Golfyr: The Maker Premier. He has also been using the TaylorMade Qi10 driver. Garcia is currently in third place at the first event of the season. He welcomed Jon Rahm to the league and expressed excitement for the upcoming season, which is expected to be more positive with new sponsors. [sportskeeda.com]

Joaquin Niemann, the captain of Torque GC in LIV Golf, has not yet secured an individual victory in the league. However, his team has been successful, winning three times in the last six regular-season events of 2023. Before joining LIV Golf, Niemann had notable achievements, including two PGA Tour wins and a victory on the European Tour. [essentiallysports.com]

The WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is set to begin, with Scottie Scheffler aiming for a three-peat. The full field includes Brian Harman, who committed to the event, and Ryan Fox as the first alternate. [nbcsports.com]

The 2024 WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is set to be an exciting event with a loaded field and a highly-energized atmosphere. The favorites for the tournament include Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Justin Thomas. TPC Scottsdale is known for its risk/reward holes and the importance of ball striking and scrambling. The course history at TPC Scottsdale is predictive of success, making it a key factor to consider when placing bets. Overall, the tournament promises to be a thrilling experience for both golf enthusiasts and novice bettors. [thelines.com]

The WM Phoenix Open chairman, George Thimsen, downplays the competition from the LIV Golf Las Vegas event, stating that nothing compares to what they do at the WM Phoenix Open. Despite not having signature event status this year, the tournament still boasts a strong field and unique qualities. Thimsen believes that the players are drawn to the event because of its history, relationship with the community, and the fact that it is unlike any other tournament. The WM Phoenix Open also benefits from having the spotlight to itself during the final round before the Super Bowl takes place in Las Vegas. [golfmonthly.com]

The 2024 LIV Golf Las Vegas field is set with top players like Jon Rahm, Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Tyrrell Hatton. The tournament will feature a 54-player field played over three days and is the second tournament of the 2024 LIV Golf League schedule. The field will compete for a $25 million purse, with five top 50 players in the Official World Golf Ranking. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

LIV Golf's signing spree, influenced by Phil Mickelson's off-season phone calls, has resulted in the acquisition of several stars for the 2024 season, including Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton. The Saudi-backed series has made significant signings, with Rahm reportedly signing a £450 million deal. Mickelson's comments about receiving interest from other players have been vindicated, and the addition of Rahm has proven to be crucial for the league. Rahm has started his LIV career strongly, currently sitting just two shots behind the leader in the tournament. [mirror.co.uk]

According to the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA), women with disabilities make up just over 9% of golfers with disabilities. However, there is optimism for change as EDGA has appointed Aimi Bullock as the Director of Women's Golf to expand the presence of golf among women and girls with disabilities. Aimi Bullock, a formidable player on the EDGA circuit, aims to raise awareness and engage with organizations to introduce individuals with disabilities to the benefits of golf. [tennisworldusa.org]

Wyndham Clark made a spicy comment about Joaquin Niemann's round of 59 at Mayakoba on LIV Golf after firing his own round of 60 at Pebble Beach. Clark's round set a course record and put him in the lead at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The comment has sparked controversy among golf fans on social media. [golfmagic.com]

Tom Brady had a nightmare start at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament, with his tee shot barely making it a few feet. Fans reacted to the embarrassing moment, comparing it to when he ripped his pants during 'The Match: Tiger vs Phil' and calling it one of the top moments on the PGA Tour. Despite the mishap, Brady laughed it off and acknowledged that his driver was off the rack. [thesportsrush.com]

NFL legend Tom Brady faced a humorous golf mishap at Pebble Beach, topping the ball straight into the ground. He jokingly mentioned that they don't do breakfast balls at Pebble Beach and admitted that football is way easier. This incident shows that even the best players can struggle on the golf course. [overtimeheroics.net]

Tom Brady recounts his memorable moments from the 2024 Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament, including a successful first round, humorous mishaps on the course, and playful banter with fellow athletes. Despite initial setbacks, Brady rebounded impressively and celebrated the overall experience with engaging Instagram stories. [essentiallysports.com]

Jordan Spieth played a prank on his caddie, Michael Greller, during the 2017 Pebble Beach tournament, leaving him behind and forcing him to hitchhike back. The caddie eventually found his way back with the help of a stranger and Spieth's wife. This incident was the only time Greller was upset with Spieth. [thesportsrush.com]

Danielle Kang, an American golfer, is taking a break from the LPGA Tour and is actively seeking new sponsors. Despite a disappointing start to the year, she remains hopeful and has tagged a travel company, JSX, on her Instagram story, asking them to sponsor her. Kang already has a long list of sponsors, including Titleist, BMW, Omega, and Adidas, among others, which has contributed to her net worth of $6 million. [essentiallysports.com]

Wyndham Clark reflects on his victory at the Wells Fargo Championship, stating that it was a bigger hurdle for him mentally than winning the U.S. Open. He credits the lessons learned from that win for his success at the U.S. Open and achieving his career goals in one year. Clark emphasizes the importance of staying focused and sticking to his process during both tournaments. [golf.com]

Abraham Ancer's first golf coach, Sergio García, reminisces about their time together and how Ancer was always focused and determined. Ancer, playing in the LIV Golf Mayakoba tournament in Mexico, was reunited with his coach and expressed gratitude for the lessons learned. Ancer's performance in the tournament has been a mix of birdies and bogeys, currently placing him in T32 after the first two rounds. [sportskeeda.com]

Reports suggest that professional golfer Ludvig Aberg signed a deal with Adidas for a mere $4 million, which is considered a steal compared to the billions being exchanged in recent golf deals. Despite the sport being "drowning in cash" due to deals like the Saudi-backed LIV and the new PGA Tour broadcasting deal, Aberg has not landed a high-paying signing. However, joining Adidas allows him to join the likes of Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, and Rose Zhang on the Adidas Golf roster. [essentiallysports.com]

Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open winner, passed on a million-dollar deal to join LIV Golf, potentially missing out on millions in earnings. Despite a record-setting performance at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Clark would need to win at least 14 Signature events to match the sum he was offered. He cited his preference for representing his country in team events like the Ryder Cup and Olympics as the reason for rejecting the lucrative prospect. [essentiallysports.com]

The final round of the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament has been affected by extreme rain and wind, potentially leading to a delay or even the event being cut short to 54 holes. Fans are expressing frustration and criticizing the PGA Tour for the adverse conditions and potential changes to the tournament. [essentiallysports.com]

Fans are not impressed with Joaquin Niemann's historic 59 in the LIV Golf Mayakoba event, considering it a one-off achievement that doesn't guarantee success in Majors. Despite the criticism, some fans argue that Niemann knew the implications of joining LIV Golf and that his previous performances in Majors have been lackluster. Overall, opinions are divided on the significance of Niemann's score and his chances in future tournaments. [essentiallysports.com]

Dean Burmester, the South African golfer, is married to Melissa Burmester. They tied the knot on November 23, 2014, and have two children together. Family is important to Burmester, and his wife played a role in his decision to join LIV Golf, allowing him more time with his family. Burmester also had a scary car accident in 2020 but fortunately, he and his family came out unscathed. [essentiallysports.com]

Wyndham Clark, the American golfer, has sparked a debate about his love interest. While there were rumors linking him to golf coach Julia Kemmling, it has been confirmed that he is dating Alicia. Clark keeps his personal life private, but fans caught a glimpse of his love interest during his 2023 US Open win. Despite previous speculation, Clark is not married to Kemmling. [essentiallysports.com]

PGA Tour fans are questioning whether Wyndham Clark "cheated" in the rough at Pebble Beach during the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite firing a career-low round of 60, some fans are accusing Clark of taking advantage of a fortunate free drop and potentially breaking Rule 8.1. This incident follows a similar controversy involving Matthieu Pavon's actions in the rough. Clark currently leads the tournament and could win a first-prize cheque of $3.6m. [golfmagic.com]

Joaquin Niemann's girlfriend, Christina Hellema Puga, is an architecture student who is interested in art, photography, and traveling. She has an Instagram account dedicated to professional architecture and art. Joaquin Niemann recently won the 2024 LIV Golf Mayakoba title in Mexico. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Tiger Woods's failed dream of designing a golf course, due in part to his divorce from Elin Nordegren, is now costing the golf world a $19 million loss. The once-dreamed-of golf course in Western North Carolina is now up for sale, with hopes of becoming a family compound or private houses. The timing of the project's failure is closely related to Woods's situation with Nordegren and the scandals surrounding him. [essentiallysports.com]

Golf influencer Paige Spiranac caddied for Bryson DeChambeau in a YouTube video, leading to DeChambeau jokingly hiring her as his caddy for an upcoming tournament in Las Vegas. The video shows Spiranac giving DeChambeau pointers and playfully taking on the role of his caddy. DeChambeau praised her personality and relaxed approach, but jokingly blamed her for two shots. [dailymail.co.uk]

LIV golfer Pat Perez's divorce from his wife Ashley has gained public attention, with Ashley sharing her feelings on social media. The couple is seeking different terms for their divorce, with Ashley seeking sole legal decision-making for their children and Pat's legal team seeking joint decision-making and equal parenting time. Despite the personal turmoil, Pat has continued to perform well professionally in the LIV Golf Tour. [firstsportz.com]

Paige Spiranac and Bryson DeChambeau's collaboration is going well, with Spiranac opening up about her vulnerabilities in a recent YouTube video. She admitted to struggling with her emotions after hitting a bad shot and referred to herself as a "mental head case" on the golf course. Despite their previous rivalry, Spiranac and DeChambeau have buried the hatchet and formed a friendship, which fans are enjoying. [essentiallysports.com]

Paige Spiranac's bold and busty outfit while playing golf caused a stir among fans. She showcased her power and grace in a practice session, wearing unconventional clothing that surprised the gaming screen. Spiranac's versatility as an athlete and influencer is evident as she seamlessly transitions between the real and virtual worlds. She is known for her social media presence and has a devoted following. [yebscore.com]

Dylan Frittelli claims his first DP World Tour win in over six years at the Bahrain Championship, securing a two-shot victory. After a challenging period with missed cuts and no professional victories, Frittelli's return to form is a welcome success. The win earns him $425,000 and moves him up to sixth in the International Swing rankings. [golfmonthly.com]

Dylan Frittelli won the 2024 Bahrain Championship with a final-round 71, finishing at 13-under 275. Zander Lombard and Jesper Svensson tied for third place. Frittelli earned €390,779.85 as the winner's share of the €2,500,000 purse. The event marked the ninth completed event of the season and awarded 18 Official World Golf Ranking points to Frittelli. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

The 2024 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters field is set, featuring players like Thriston Lawrence, Rasmus Hojgaard, and Pablo Larrazabal. The tournament will be played at Doha Golf Club in Doha, Qatar, with a 132-player field competing over four days. The purse is $2,500,000, but none of the top 50 players in the Official World Golf Ranking are among the top contenders. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

The Tito's Shorties Classic, a pitch and putt charity event, will feature three PGA Tour pros teaming up with social media personalities for a 9-hole Tito's Texas Team Skins match. The event will be aired on Golf Channel, and each team will raise money for a charity of their choice. Joel Dahmen, one of the pros, will be playing for the Dahmen Family Foundation, which supports junior golf and cancer research. The event aims to showcase the fun and accessible side of golf while giving back to the community. [sbnation.com]

Rhys Enoch secured his second Challenge Tour title by winning the SDC Open in South Africa. With four consecutive rounds of 66, he finished two shots ahead of Deon Germishuys and Martin Rohwer. Enoch now holds the number one spot in the Road to Mallorca rankings and expressed relief and happiness after his victory. [bbc.com]

Brett Coletta emerged as the winner of the 2024 Vic Open men's golf tournament, finishing with a two-shot victory over Jordan Zunic and Andrew Martin. Coletta earned AUD$76,500 as the winner's share of the AUD$420,000 purse. The tournament featured a total of 39 players, with Coletta also earning 3 Official World Golf Ranking points and a two-year exemption onto the ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Ashley Lau won the 2024 Vic Open women's golf tournament with a one-shot victory. Jiyai Shin finished in second place, and Jeongmin Cho came in third. Lau earned AUD$75,600 as the winner's share of the purse. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Transgender golfer Hailey Davidson's recent win has sparked discussion in the golf world. Davidson's performance, including hitting the ball significantly farther than her competitors, has raised questions about fairness and the advantages and disadvantages of transgender participation in women's sports. Some believe that transgender women who experienced male puberty have inherent advantages that cannot be erased by hormone therapy or surgery. Others argue for inclusivity and acceptance. The debate continues, with calls for the LPGA to review its current policies. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Kyle Hamilton and Tiger Woods are not related at all, despite Hamilton jokingly calling himself Woods' "cousin." Their families have different backgrounds and come from different parts of the world. The rumor likely started from Hamilton's introduction during the 2024 NFL Pro Bowl Skills showdown. The event is an exhibition held prior to the NFL Super Bowl and consists of various skill tests. The claim of being related to Woods was likely a joke to showcase Hamilton's golf skills. [sportskeeda.com]

Thomas Detry is currently leading the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am after an impressive first round. Detry, a Belgian golfer, has had success on both the European Tour and the PGA Tour, with multiple top-10 finishes. Although he has come close to winning, Detry is working on improving his mental game and trusting his skills. He started the tournament strong with a 9-under 63, putting him ahead of Patrick Cantlay. [essentiallysports.com]

Nelly Korda, a professional golfer on the LPGA Tour, is known for her powerful swing and ability to drive the ball long off the tee. Her average driving distance ranges from 260 to 275 yards, with her longest hitting year in 2022 at 272.28 yards. Although her driving accuracy is not as high as her distance, she maintains a consistent performance. Korda's average swing speed is 95 mph, resulting in a ball speed of around 140 mph. [golfmonthly.com]

Dottie Pepper recently won the Old Morris Award, becoming the seventh woman to receive this prestigious award in the history of the LPGA Tour. The Old Morris Award is given to individuals outside of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America who have made significant contributions to the game of golf. Other LPGA pros who have won the award include Patty Berg, Dinah Shore, Nancy Lopez, Judy Rankin, Annika Sorenstam, and Renee Powell. [essentiallysports.com]

According to Arccos data, to be longer than 99.7% of male amateur golfers, you need a median driving distance of 284 yards. This distance not only puts you in the top 1% for distance off the tee but also makes you 4 yards longer than the average tour pro. Driving distance tends to increase as handicap decreases, with a scratch golfer driving around 259 yards on average and a 20-handicapper driving around 213 yards. Only 1.6% of amateur male golfers have an average driving distance of over 280 yards. [golfmonthly.com]

This article discusses the driving distance needed to outdrive 99.7% of male amateur golfers. According to Arccos data, a median driving distance of 284 yards puts you in the top 0.3%. The article also highlights the correlation between driving distance and handicap, with lower handicaps generally driving the ball farther. [golfmonthly.com]

To play in a PGA Tour pro-am, you can participate in the Monday or Wednesday pro-am events. The cost varies, with the Monday pro-am being less expensive. The format is typically a one-day affair with one pro and four amateurs, playing in a scramble or shamble format. Treat it like a casual round of golf and enjoy the opportunity to make connections and have fun. Contact the specific tournament or visit their website for more details on how to participate. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

A Reddit golfer shared a fascinating 30-year handicap bet between a 3-handicap player and a 16-handicap player. The bet involves playing one round of golf straight up, with $5,000 on the line. The 16-handicap player has 30 years to beat the better player. While it's difficult to handicap the outcome, the bet serves as motivation for improvement and highlights the challenge of reducing one's handicap over time. [golfdigest.com]

Pebble Beach Co., owner of prestigious golf courses, has hired former Justice Department lawyer Patrick Hovakimian as its chief legal officer. Hovakimian, known for blocking the firing of acting US Attorney General Rosen, joins Pebble Beach after leaving private practice. The company, valued at over $3 billion, is owned by a group including Peter Ueberroth, Clint Eastwood, Arnold Palmer, and Bill Perocchi. Hovakimian's new role involves overseeing litigation, land use, real estate, regulatory, corporate, and intellectual property issues. [news.bloomberglaw.com]

Peter Senior, the ageless golfer, has achieved another age-defying feat by shooting a 7-under 63 at the Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club. This marks the first time Senior has broken his age and adds to his impressive career of winning tournaments in five separate decades. [pga.org.au]

The LPGA Tour has implemented changes for the 2024 season, including allowing non-members who win events to earn Rolex Person of the Year points and Rookie of the Year points. Non-member US players will also receive points for the 2026 Solheim Cup. This change was influenced by Rose Zhang's win and aims to recognize talent and provide incentives for non-members. [essentiallysports.com]

The LPGA Tour has announced changes to the allocation of LPGA Tour cards, reducing the number of cards awarded through the Q-Series qualifying tournament and expanding the cards for Epson Tour players. The top 15 finishers on the Epson Tour's season-long standings will now earn LPGA Tour status, while the Q-Series final stage will offer cards to the top 25 finishers. These changes aim to provide more playing opportunities to deserving players and reward full-season performance. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Padraig Harrington suggests a transfer system between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf to bridge the divide between the two and maintain the quality of the product. He proposes inviting LIV Golf stars like Jon Rahm to certain PGA Tour events and vice versa, with transfer fees being paid by the rival tours. While a merger between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour is being discussed, Harrington believes coexistence and creating a buzz are more important. LIV Golf's third season is set to begin with new signings Rahm, Hatton, and Meronk making their debuts. [mirror.co.uk]

LIV Golf has reduced the last place prize by $70,000 for the 2024 season due to format changes. The roster has been expanded to 13 teams, requiring a field of 54 players and two wild cards. The individual and team prize money has been adjusted accordingly, with the last place earning $50,000. The season will continue to operate on a points system, and players in the Lock Zone secure their contract for the 2025 season. [sportskeeda.com]

Despite finishing at the bottom of the leaderboard, Sam Horsfield earned $1.5 million in the 2023 LIV Golf season. The LIV Golf Series offers impressive prize purses, with 11 golfers earning over $10 million last year. In response, the PGA Tour has increased the size of their prize purses, with a total of $400 million for the year. [sportskeeda.com]

Declan O'Donovan will compete against Andrew Kirkman in the New South Wales Men's Amateur Championship. O'Donovan had a tough battle against Koby Carruthers but secured a win, while Kirkman surprised himself by making it to the final. The championship is played over two courses with stroke play and match play rounds. [amateurgolf.com]

Chun-Wei Wu of Chinese Taipei secured a wire-to-wire victory in the Women's Asia-Pacific Amateur championship. Despite facing high stress and a challenging final round, Wu finished with an even-par 72 to win the tournament with a score of 18-under-par 270. This victory will propel her into the global spotlight in 2024. [amateurgolf.com]

The Ohio State men's golf team won the season-opening Southwestern Collegiate Invitational, with graduate senior Neal Shipley winning the individual title. Shipley shot 12-under for the tournament, holding off Taehoon Song of Washington by one shot. The Buckeyes finished at 13-under, winning the team title by one shot over UNLV. [landgrantholyland.com]

Eight-year-old twin golfers, Albert and Otis Hicks from Herefordshire, have achieved international success in the junior Turkish Open. Despite only playing golf for just over a year, they won first and fifth place in the tournament. Their father described their performance as "incredible" and highlighted their natural talent for the sport. The twins play almost every day and have become highly skilled, even surpassing their father's golfing abilities. [bbc.com]

TaylorMade has launched the Kalea Premier range, offering top-quality, custom-fitted golf clubs for women. Based on extensive research and feedback from golfers, the range aims to satisfy the demands of women golfers who want custom-fitted equipment, a technology story, and premium aesthetics. The range includes woods, irons, hybrids, and a compact Spider Mini putter, all designed to provide lightweight speed, easy launch, maximum forgiveness, and a sleek appearance. [todays-golfer.com]

Discover the best golf rangefinders for 2024 to enhance your golf game. These rangefinders provide precision distance measurements, slope adjustment, wind speed, and other key data to help you make informed decisions on the course. Top picks include the Callaway Golf 300 Pro Slope Rangefinder, Callaway Screen View Golf Laser Rangefinder, Segmart Golf Rangefinder, Garmin Approach Z82 Golf GPS, and Redtiger Golf Rangefinder with 7x Magnification. [cbssports.com]

The Cleveland ZipCore XL Irons offer a unique blend of characteristics, combining features of both game improvement irons and irons for low handicappers. With a shiny chrome design, spaceship-like topography, and a vast blade length, these irons stand out visually. The A.I.-designed MainFrame face and ZipCore technology contribute to improved ball speed, launch, spin, and distance. The irons provide a solid feel and consistent flight, instilling confidence in the golfer. Available in various shaft options, the Cleveland ZipCore XL irons are a visually appealing and reliable choice for golfers. [golfmonthly.com]

The Foresight Sports QuadMAX is a highly anticipated product in the golf industry, offering substantial improvements over its predecessor, the GCQuad. With advanced four-camera Quadrascopic capture technology, the QuadMAX provides accurate and fast data capture for both golf ball and club data. New features include access to apex, descent angle, and ball offline data points, a lighter and more portable design, a responsive touchscreen display, customizable data display with MyTiles, and a speed training mode. Whether for personal use or through various golf-related activities, the QuadMAX offers a significant advantage for golfers. [amateurgolf.com]

Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, carries a mixed bag of golf equipment brands including TaylorMade, Titleist, and Odyssey. He uses the Odyssey Versa Jailbird putter and Titleist irons. Clark's tee time for the final round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AM is at 1:08 p.m. alongside Ludvig Åberg and Matthieu Pavon. [sportskeeda.com]

Jon Rahm debuted in the LIV Golf Mayakoba event and showcased his skills with a 5-under score in the first round. He relies on Callaway equipment, including the Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond Driver, Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond T Fairway Wood, Callaway Apex UT and TCB irons, Callaway Jaws Raw Wedges, and Callaway's Odyssey White Hot OG Rossie S. Putter. He also uses Callaway Chrome Soft X golf balls and Golf Pride MCC midsize grips. [essentiallysports.com]

Joaquin Niemann's bag for LIV Golf's season opener includes a PING G430 LST Driver, G430 MAX Fairway Woods, PING Blueprint S Irons, PING Prototype Wedges, PING PLD Anser Custom Putter, and Titleist Pro V1x golf balls. [essentiallysports.com]

Sergio Garcia's golf bag for the 2024 LIV Golf Mayakoba season opener includes a PING G430 Max driver, PING Blueprint irons, TaylorMade fairway woods, L.A.B. Golf Mezz.1 putters, Titleist Vokey SM9 wedges, and TaylorMade TP5 golf balls. He also wears Adidas ZG23 shoes for comfort and style. [essentiallysports.com]

Lucas Glover's golf gear for February 2024 includes a Srixon Z785 driver, Srixon ZX5 Mk II and Srixon ZX7 Mk II irons, Ping G430 Max fairway woods, L.A.B. Mezz.1 Max putter, Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore Tour Rack wedges, and Srixon Z-Star XV golf ball. Despite not winning in 2024 so far, Glover's equipment choices contribute to his game. [essentiallysports.com]

Nick Dunlap is using a combination of clubs from Taylormade, Ping, and Srixon at his PGA Tour debut at AT&T Pebble Beach. His bag includes the TaylorMade Qi10 LS driver, Ping G425 LST fairway wood, Srixon ZX and TaylorMade P7MC irons, TaylorMade MG3 and MG4 wedges, Odyssey O-Works #7 Tank putter, and Titleist Pro V1 golf ball. [sportskeeda.com]

Footjoy is set to release the Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon, the next evolution of the Pro|SL golf shoe franchise. These shoes offer advanced traction with the PWR TRAX System, advanced comfort with StratoFoam midsole, and advanced control with the 3D X-Wing design. The Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon will be available in Australian golf shops from February 15, with various color and lacing options. [golfaustralia.com]

This article highlights the best new golf shoes for February 2024, featuring brands like Nike, FootJoy, Adidas, Puma, G/FORE, and more. The shoes mentioned include FootJoy Traditions '24 Golf Shoes, Nike Victory Pro 3 '24 Golf Shoes, Payntr Golf X 001 F (Mesh), Puma Slipstream G Spikeless Golf Shoes, Adidas Stan Smith '24 Spikeless Golf Shoes, G/FORE MG4+ '24 Spikeless Golf Shoes, New Balance Heritage '24 Golf Shoes, Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG G Spikeless Golf Shoes, Adidas Ultraboost '24 Spikeless Golf Shoes, FootJoy Hyperflex Carbon Golf Shoes, Puma IGNITE INNOVATE '24 Golf Shoes, and G/FORE Limited Edition Gallivan2r T.P.U. Tuxedo Golf Shoe. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Pins & Aces has released a collection of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles golf accessories, including polo shirts and club covers. The collection features different designs, such as the Mean Green polo with the turtles' heads, the TMNT Doodle polo with hidden letters, and the Comic Strip polo with panels of the turtles in action. The club covers include a blade cover, a driver cover, and a mallet cover. These accessories add an epic touch to your golf game. [thepopinsider.com]

Rory McIlroy incurred a penalty during the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am due to a misunderstanding of the drop rules. McIlroy took "back-on-the-line" relief but dropped his ball slightly off the line, resulting in additional penalty strokes. The rule had been changed in 2023, requiring the ball to be dropped directly on the line. The rule changes were made to simplify the drop rules and make them easier to understand and apply. [golf.com]

According to the Rules of Golf, a golfer is allowed to hit their ball off the beach if it lands there during a round, as long as the beach is not considered out of bounds. The beach is not considered a bunker or sand trap, and hitting from the sand on the beach is treated the same as hitting from the ground. However, if the beach is out of bounds, a one-stroke penalty is incurred. If the beach is considered a hazard, the player can hit from the beach without penalty or choose to take relief based on the type of penalty area. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

When facing a red-stake lateral water hazard on the golf course, golfers have two options for taking a drop and incurring a one-stroke penalty. They can either drop the ball within two clublengths of where it last crossed the hazard's boundary, ensuring the ball is no closer to the hole, or drop it within two clublengths on the opposite side of the hazard equidistant from where it last crossed the boundary. Golfers can lift and clean their ball from the hazard or replace it with a new one. It is also worth noting that the expected height for dropping a ball will change from shoulder height to knee height in 2019. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

When a golfer hits their ball out of bounds, the stroke-and-distance penalty is applied, requiring the golfer to take a one-stroke penalty and re-hit the shot from the original position. This penalty is one of the most punitive in golf. Golfers can either lift and clean their ball or put a new ball into play. It's important to check with individual golf courses and tournament committees to determine the boundaries of out of bounds and lateral hazards. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

Shell Bay Club in the Miami area offers a unique and exclusive golf experience in a prime location. With a membership cost of over $1 million, it is the first private club in the Miami area in decades. The development includes luxury amenities such as a boutique hotel, tennis facility, yacht club, and a championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. The project has attracted interest from both local and international buyers, making it a "generational opportunity" in the market. [forbes.com]

New Jersey offers a variety of picturesque golf courses, including the environmentally sustainable Pine Barrens Golf Club in Jackson and the restored Plainfield Country Club in Edison. The renowned Ballyowen Golf Course at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg is also a top choice, known for its stunning landscape and challenging design inspired by links-style courses. [943thepoint.com]

Tom Brady experienced a breakdown in fundamentals during the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, resulting in a cold topped tee shot. The issue stemmed from a high right hip at address, causing a reverse pivot and steepening the swing plane. The fix is to adjust the setup with a higher right hip. Proper setup is crucial to avoid swing issues, especially on grand stages like Pebble Beach. [golf.com]

Using a fairway wood for chipping around the greens can be effective. The larger sole and extra weight of the club help prevent it from sticking to the turf, allowing for a smoother shot. Set up like a normal putt and use a bit more hinge in your stroke to roll the ball through the grass. [golf.com]

In this blog post, the author shares six golf goals for 2024. The goals include finding new golfing partners, working on the game by practicing different shots and calculating distances, checking and updating golf equipment, exploring new courses to play, improving the handicap by addressing weaknesses, and considering the right golf clubs for individual gameplay. The author emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and suggests focusing on putting skills to lower the handicap. [golfshake.com]

Phil Mickelson suggests practicing putting from off the green to avoid the common mistake of misjudging the speed of the fringe. By putting on the driving range, Mickelson develops a feel for the speed of the fairways and approaches, especially in dry conditions. This drill helps him when using a putter from off the green and when chip shots may not be ideal. [golf.com]

Using your feet correctly in the golf swing can greatly improve your game. This article provides 10 ways to utilize your feet, including finding proper posture and spacing, adjusting ball position, aiming and alignment, using wider or narrower feet for different swings, stepping in when gripping down, using closed or open stances for specific shot shapes, and positioning the ball forward or back for desired ball flight. [golf.com]

In this Golf Digest article, two scratch golfers reflect on their career-best rounds and share key lessons learned. The first lesson is to focus on perfect speed rather than line when putting. The second lesson is that great golf isn't perfect, and it's important not to let mistakes affect momentum. [golfdigest.com]

The name "golf" has various early spellings and is believed to have originated from Scots or Dutch words meaning to strike or club. The Dutch theory has fallen out of favor due to the consistent use of the letter 'g' in the Scottish name for the sport. The history of golf in Scotland predates the Dutch game, with written references to different spellings of the word. [golfmonthly.com]

Twelve players have shot 59 or lower in PGA Tour history, with Al Geiberger being the first in 1977. Jim Furyk holds the record with a score of 58. Other players who achieved this feat include Chip Beck, David Duval, Paul Goydos, Stuart Appleby, Justin Thomas, and Brandt Snedeker, among others. [nbcsports.com]

Three well-traveled pro caddies share essential travel tips: 1) Inflate your air mattress to the max for a comfortable sleep, 2) Fly Southwest for more legroom without needing an upgrade, and 3) Avoid checking a bag to save time and be in control of your belongings. [golf.com]

For any golfer, somewhere near the top of their lifetime dream scenario would be owning a course. That fantasy could even become a reality for someone out there - as one acclaimed Scottish venue is currently for sale. [golfshake.com]

A failed golf course designed by Tiger Woods in Buncombe County, North Carolina, is being put back on the market with a price tag of $19 million. Investors are seeking a buyer with deep pockets, while a conservation group is interested in transforming the property into a nature preserve. [wsoctv.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.